Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe

This Italian hot chocolate recipe is thick, smooth, creamy and warm. A full mug of rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings is the perfect way to start a wintry morning. If you have never tried Italian style hot chocolate (Cioccolata Calda), follow this easy recipe to learn how to make the best hot chocolate

2-4 servings

Ingredients:

1½ cups (360ml) Milk
1-2 tablespoons Sugar
1 tablespoon (8g) Cocoa powder
4 oz (115g) Dark chocolate (70%)
1-2 tablespoons (7.5-15g) Cornstarch
Pinch salt
Whipped cream + cocoa powder/chocolate shavings for serving

Directions:

1. Chop the chocolate. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl whisk 1/2 milk and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. In a small saucepan place the rest of the milk with sugar, salt and cocoa powder. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, add the cornstarch mixture, whisk until combined and cook for 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chopped chocolate, turn the heat off and whisk for 2-3 minutes, until completely dissolved and thick.
5. Pour into a mug, garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Notes:

• In this recipe I used only one tablespoon of cornstarch. For a thicker consistency you can use 2 or even 2½ tablespoons. It’s totally up to your preference.
• You can control the sweetness of the hot chocolate by adding more or less sugar.