Hot Chocolate for One Recipe
Introduction
This cozy hot chocolate recipe is perfect for one and delivers a rich, creamy treat in just minutes. Made with real cocoa and a hint of cinnamon, it’s an ideal way to warm up on chilly days.
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: whipped cream and/or marshmallows for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan, warm the milk and heavy cream over medium heat. For a lighter version, use 1 cup of milk instead.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon until combined.
- Step 3: When the milk mixture is hot but not boiling, slowly whisk in the cocoa mixture. Continue stirring for about 4 minutes, until the hot chocolate thickens slightly and deepens in color.
- Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a smooth, rich flavor.
- Step 5: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with almond or oat milk, though it may be less creamy.
- Adjust the sugar level to suit your taste by adding more or less.
- Add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Use dark or bittersweet cocoa powder for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Storage
Hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, replace the milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk. Use a vegan sugar to keep it fully plant-based.
What if I don’t have ground cinnamon?
You can omit the cinnamon; the hot chocolate will still be delicious. Alternatively, use a tiny pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a different warm spice note.
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Hot Chocolate for One Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
This cozy Hot Chocolate for One is a rich and creamy treat perfect for a chilly day. Made with a blend of milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, this single-serving hot chocolate is easy to prepare and can be topped with whipped cream or marshmallows for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Marshmallows
Instructions
- Warm the Milk and Cream: In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk and heavy cream over medium heat until hot but not boiling. This ensures a creamy base for the hot chocolate. For a lighter version, you can substitute 1 cup of milk instead of the cream and milk combination.
- Mix the Cocoa Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon. Stir to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine Cocoa Mix with Warmed Milk: Slowly whisk the cocoa mixture into the hot milk and cream, stirring continuously for about 4 minutes. This helps the chocolate thicken slightly and develop a deeper, richer color.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This step adds a smooth and rich flavor to your hot chocolate.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with whipped cream and/or marshmallows if desired. Enjoy your warm, delicious treat!
Notes
- Do not let the milk mixture boil, as it can scorch or develop a skin.
- You can adjust the sugar amount to taste for a sweeter or less sweet hot chocolate.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives such as almond or oat milk and coconut cream.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon enhances the flavor and adds a subtle warmth.
- Using high-quality cocoa powder greatly improves the richness and depth of the hot chocolate.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot chocolate, cocoa, single serving, warm drink, winter beverage, rich hot chocolate, cozy drink
