Description
Thick, rich, and decadently creamy, this authentic Italian hot chocolate (cioccolata calda) is a comforting and indulgent drink, perfect for cold evenings or as a luxurious treat. Made with real chocolate and thickened with cornstarch, it has a velvety texture that borders on dessert.
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free milk of choice)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
Pinch of salt
Whipped cream or shaved chocolate for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
- Add about 1/4 cup of the milk to form a smooth paste, whisking until lump-free.
- Whisk in the remaining milk until fully combined.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Once warm, stir in the chocolate chips and continue stirring until fully melted.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and pour into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream or shaved chocolate if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk.
Adjust the sugar based on your preferred sweetness and type of chocolate used.
Add spices like cinnamon or cayenne for a cozy twist.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
