why make this recipe
This hot chocolate is quick, creamy, and simple. You can make it on the stove in minutes for a cold day or a quick treat. It uses few ingredients and no special tools. If you like easy recipes for busy nights, check these easy dinner ideas for more simple meals.
introduction
Easy Stovetop Hot Chocolate is warm, rich, and tastes like a cozy hug. You stir cocoa into milk and heat until smooth. It is perfect for kids and adults. Try it when you want a fast, homemade drink instead of packets. For more simple recipe ideas, see this simple recipes guide.
how to make Easy Stovetop Hot Chocolate
Make this on the stove in one pan. Heat milk slowly, add cocoa and sugar, whisk until smooth, then add vanilla. Serve with toppings.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping
Directions :
- Heat the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming (about 5 minutes).
- Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until fully dissolved and smooth (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
how to serve Easy Stovetop Hot Chocolate
Serve hot in mugs. Add whipped cream, marshmallows, a sprinkle of cocoa, or a cinnamon stick. You can serve with cookies or a simple sandwich for a light snack.
how to store Easy Stovetop Hot Chocolate
Cool to room temperature, then store in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk if it got too thick.
tips to make Easy Stovetop Hot Chocolate
- Warm the milk slowly so it does not boil over.
- Whisk the cocoa and sugar well to avoid lumps.
- Taste and adjust sugar before adding vanilla.
- Use higher-fat milk for richer flavor, or a plant milk for dairy-free.
- For a quick variation, add a small pinch of salt or a dash of cinnamon.
For other quick meal and drink ideas, try these quick easy chicken meals for inspiration.
variation (if any)
- Chocolatey: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate for extra richness.
- Mint: Add 1/4 tsp peppermint extract instead of vanilla.
- Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a warm kick.
- Adult: Stir in a splash of rum, brandy, or Kahlúa after removing from heat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use cocoa mix instead of cocoa powder?
A: Yes. If you use a sweetened cocoa mix, reduce or skip the sugar.
Q: Can I make this with skim milk or a milk alternative?
A: Yes. It works with skim milk, almond, oat, or soy milk. Full-fat milk is creamier.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger saucepan and heat slowly, stirring more often.
Q: How do I avoid burning the milk?
A: Stir often and keep the heat medium to low. Remove from heat once steaming.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge up to 3 days and reheat slowly on the stove.
Conclusion
For a similar stovetop method and extra tips, see this Homemade Hot Chocolate (Stovetop Recipe!) – Live Well Bake Often.
Print
Easy Stovetop Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and creamy stovetop hot chocolate recipe that warms you up on cold days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping
Instructions
- Heat the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming (about 5 minutes).
- Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until fully dissolved and smooth (about 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
Notes
Serve hot in mugs. You can serve with cookies or a simple sandwich for a light snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: hot chocolate, easy recipes, winter drink, creamy beverage, homemade hot chocolate