introduction
This hot cocoa is warm, simple, and cozy. It uses milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and a little vanilla. You can make it fast on the stove and top it with marshmallows.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick and needs few ingredients. It tastes rich and homemade. It is great for cold days, for kids, or when you want a sweet warm drink.
how to make Hot Cocoa
Heat the milk slowly so it gets hot but does not boil. Whisk in cocoa and sugar until the drink is smooth. Take it off the heat and add vanilla. Pour into mugs and add marshmallows or whipped cream.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Marshmallows (for topping)
Directions :
Heat 2 cups of milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1-2 tablespoons of sugar until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or whipped cream.
how to serve Hot Cocoa
Serve hot in warm mugs. Add marshmallows, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa. Serve with a cookie or a slice of cake for a nice treat.
how to store Hot Cocoa
If you have leftovers, cool to room temperature and put in a covered container in the fridge. Use within 2 days. Reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well.
tips to make Hot Cocoa
- Warm the milk slowly to avoid scalding.
- Whisk well so the cocoa mixes without lumps.
- Taste and adjust sugar to your liking.
- Use good cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor.
- For dairy-free, use almond, oat, or soy milk.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of salt to bring out flavor.
- For spicy cocoa, add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne.
- Use dark chocolate melted instead of cocoa powder for a richer drink.
- Make it vegan by using plant milk and vegan marshmallows.
FAQs
Q: Can I use water instead of milk?
A: Yes, but milk makes it creamier and richer.
Q: How can I make it less sweet?
A: Start with 1 tablespoon sugar and add more if you want it sweeter.
Q: Can I make this in the microwave?
A: Yes. Heat the milk in a microwave-safe cup until hot, then whisk in cocoa, sugar, and vanilla.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger pot and heat gently until steaming.
Q: How do I fix lumps of cocoa?
A: Whisk hard, or mix the cocoa and sugar with a little hot milk to make a paste, then add the rest of the milk.
Conclusion
For another easy hot chocolate idea and extra tips, see this recipe: Homemade Hot Chocolate – Celebrating Sweets
Print
Homemade Hot Cocoa
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, rich hot cocoa recipe that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Marshmallows (for topping)
Instructions
- Heat 2 cups of milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1-2 tablespoons of sugar until fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or whipped cream.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use good quality cocoa powder. Adjust sugar according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: hot cocoa, chocolate drink, warm beverages, winter drinks, easy recipes