• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Little Sugar Snaps
  • All Recipes
  • Trending
  • Favourites
  • Baking
  • Drinks
  • Savoury
  • Midlands Recipes
  • About
  • Subscribe
  • Work with Me
  • Portfolio
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • All Recipes
  • Trending
  • Favourites
  • Baking
  • Drinks
  • Savoury
  • Midlands Recipes
  • About
  • Subscribe
  • Work with Me
  • Portfolio
×

Home » Drinks » Hot Drinks

How to Make the Best Homemade Hot Chocolate (28 recipes)

November 8, 2021 by Jane Saunders 2 Comments

Collage of hot chocolate images with text overlay.
Collage of drinking chocolate images with text overlay.

Calling all chocoholics. You’ll enjoy this guide to making the best hot chocolate at home and my collection of 28 gourmet hot chocolate recipes to peruse. Go Continental. Get Fruity. Crack open the fun or get boozy. It’s up to you.

A collage of images showing various chocolate drinks.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Contents hide
1 What’s the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?
2 Does it matter what chocolate I use?
3 What’s the best way to make it?
4 What can I add to my basic hot chocolate?
5 Gourmet hot chocolate ideas

Hot chocolate is the ultimate comfort drink. Warm, sweet and often decadently topped, it’s really little wonder that this drink is popular the world over.

But when it comes to homemade hot chocolate, how do we ensure it’s the best it can be? Read on to find out what ingredients to use, the best way to make it and how to present it for the ultimate chocolate drink experience.

Sprinkled throughout this guide to homemade hot chocolate are some of the best gourmet hot chocolate recipe ideas around too. There’s something to entice all tastes.

What’s the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?

What do you call your warm chocolate drink – hot cocoa, hot chocolate or something else entirely? When I was a child I would only ever refer to it as drinking chocolate.

Although all three of these terms are often used interchangeably, there are some differences between these drinks. So let’s get a little clarification on those variations.

Hot cocoa

Hot cocoa is usually made from cocoa powder blended with either water or milk. This makes it a relatively bitter chocolate drink so it’s often sweetened with a little sugar.

It’s made by mixing the cocoa powder with a little cold water to make a paste. Freshly boiled water or milk is then whisked in until the powder dissolves.

Hot cocoa is cheap, quick and relatively healthy, depending how much sweetener is added.

Spiced Hot Cocoa
Check out this recipe
Mugs of hot cocoa with cinnamon sticks and star anise garnishes.

Drinking chocolate

Cadbury’s Drinking Chocolate was the go-to warm chocolate drink of my youth. It is nothing more than cocoa powder pre-mixed with sugar. It should always be made with milk, never water, so the resulting drink is milkier, smoother, creamier and somewhat sweeter than many hot cocoa counterparts can be.

Note: Drinking chocolate is also an alternative name for hot chocolate.

Homemade Drinking Chocolate Mix
Check out this recipe
Drinking chocolate mix and a cup of drinking chocolate.

Hot chocolate

This chocolate drink is hot cocoa’s more opulent and flamboyant cousin. For this, real chocolate is melted into milk for a luxurious chocolate drink. Sweetness levels depend on the type of chocolate used, so sugar is not always necessary.

Real Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
real chocolate drink with marshmallows

Continental hot chocolate

It would be remiss not to also mention continental style chocolate drinks here too as they are quite different again from a typical mug of hot cocoa or drinking chocolate served in the UK or US.

The likes of Italy and Spain blend real chocolate with milk and a little cornflour to create a rich and thick drinking chocolate served in espresso-sized cups. This decadent drink is called cioccolata calda in Italy or chocolate caliente in Spain and is wonderful served with biscotti or churros (respectively) for dunking in.

Cioccolata Calda (Italian Hot Chocolate)
Check out this recipe
Close up of Italian stlye hot chocolate in an espresso cup.
Chocolate Caliente (Spanish Hot Chocolate)
Check out this recipe
Churros being dipped into Spanish hot chocolate.

Does it matter what chocolate I use?

The best chocolate to use for homemade hot chocolate is usually the highest quality one you can afford. That said, most chocolate melts well when combined with hot milk, so never let a small budget hold you back. Cheaper chocolate leans towards the sweeter side of the taste spectrum, so taste before committing to any additional sugar in your drinking chocolate.

But perhaps the biggest dilemma when making a chocolate drink at home is what type of chocolate the base should be made from – dark, milk or white? They each give quite different results, so let’s explore these options further.

Dark chocolate hot chocolate

Dark chocolate is known for being more intense and less sweet than milk chocolate, but it is highly suitable to use in warm chocolate drinks.

The intensity of the cocoa flavour depends on the percentage of cocoa solids present – the higher the percentage, the more intense and less sweet the flavour. Anything containing about 55% cocoa solids or more is generally classed as dark chocolate.

For a truly magnificent rich and intense drinking chocolate experience, opt for a bar with at least 70% cocoa solids. Sweeten (or not) according to your own taste preferences.

Milk chocolate hot chocolate

Made with milk, sugar and a much lower percentage of cocoa solids (usually around 20%-25%) milk chocolate is a firm favourite for munching on. But it can also be used to make a sweet and deliciously creamy chocolate drink.

I’d advise against adding sugar to this version, as most milk chocolate is sweet enough.

Look out for specialist milk chocolate bars with higher levels of cocoa solids. Hotel Chocolate make a 40% bar which is definitely going to help your drink rank amongst the best hot chocolate you’ve made.

White chocolate hot chocolate

Resoundingly popular with children and adults with a particularly sweet tooth, white chocolate can also feature in warm chocolate drinks. This version definitely will not need any sugar or other sweetener added to it.

Do yourself a favour and look out for white chocolate with a minimum of 20% cocoa solids. Any less than this and it really will be an inferior product.

What’s the best way to make it?

Always use full-fat milk for the best hot chocolate with a rich, creamy and full flavour. Hot chocolate is an indulgent drink, so swapping the milk for semi-skimmed or skimmed milk is not the best course of action. Anybody watching their calories would be wiser to skip the whipped cream and toppings or opt for a hot cocoa drink instead.

The easiest way to make hot chocolate is on the stovetop but it can also be made in the slow cooker or the microwave. Whichever method is adopted, the milk should never be allowed to boil as this can cause any chocolate on the bottom of the pan to burn.

Stovetop method

  • Simply pick a suitably sized pan pour in the milk and begin to heat
  • Add chopped chocolate and let fully melt as the milk is heating, stirring or whisking frequently.
  • Once the chocolate has melted and the milk is hot use an emersion blender or a dedicated milk frother to whip the liquid to achieve a particularly smooth, creamy and bubbly finish.

Microwave method

  • Put the milk into a large microwave-safe jug and warm on moderate heat for 45 seconds then add the chopped chocolate.
  • Heat again for another 30 seconds then stir well.
  • Repeat twice more. By now the chocolate is likely to be melting well.
  • If necessary, continue to heat in 15-second bursts (stirring each time) until the chocolate has completed melted and the drink is hot enough.
  • Whip the drink until frothy and serve.

Slow cooker method

Most drinking chocolate recipes are very quick to make, and unless you are making a large batch, it is rarely sensible to make it using a slow cooker. The one exception is when intending to serve it at a party, when the slow cooker can then keep the drink warm.

To make hot chocolate in a slow cooker ensure at leave 8 servings are to be made, then put all ingredients into the pan and cook on low for 2½ hours, stirring several times. Froth using a stick blender before serving.

What can I add to my basic hot chocolate?

Flavour enhancers

If you are keen to explore beyond a basic chocolate flavour consider adding any of the following to your homemade hot chocolate:

  • Extracts – vanilla, orange, almond and peppermint can all lift the base chocolate flavour profile significantly. It’s best to add in small increments to ensure the added flavour is not overpowering.
  • Rosewater – a few drops can add an exotic hint of Turkish delight. This works particularly well with a dark chocolate base.
  • Syrups – gingerbread, chai spice, hazelnut and cinnamon syrup are just a few options amongst many. Use store-bought or homemade and use it to replace any added sugar in your recipe.
  • Coffee – dissolve coffee granules into the hot drink or mix in a shot of espresso to turn your drink into a mocha.
  • Tea – matcha tea is a common partner to chocolate but Earl Grey and peppermint tea should not be overlooked.
  • Fruit – yes this sounds quirky, but some fruits, especially berries and orange partner exceedingly well with chocolate. Not all fruits are contenders though as some will cause the drink to coagulate, so do your research first.
  • Alcohol – not only can it add an extra flavour dimension, a small kick of booze can add a cosy, deeply comforting grown-up buzz to the drink.

Toppings and accessories

Part of the thrill of enjoying this indulgent drink is the embellishments gracing the top. Whipped cream is fine and dandy as the only adornment on a mug of drinking chocolate, but there are endless possibilities for anybody wishing to extend the extravagance further. Here are a few topping ideas:

  • Marshmallows – full-sized or mini, these always hit the spot. They can also be served directly in the drink for those wishing to omit the cream. Bonus points for homemade.
  • Toasted marshmallows – for the full-on s’mores effect.
  • Sweet sauces or fruit coulis – drizzle a little over the top of the cream for a burst of colour and interest.
  • Sprinkles – there are so many choices here. Keep them generic or match the season e.g. pumpkins for Halloween or snowflakes for Christmas.
  • Mini gingerbread men – perch a little guy on top of the cream for a cute festive touch. Mini gingerbread houses hanging on the side of the mug also look super-cute.
  • Ground cinnamon – simple and classic but highly effective, especially in the cooler months.
  • Crushed cookies – Oreos and Biscoff work well.
  • Grated chocolate or caramel curls.
  • Small sweets – try M&Ms, Jazzles or Jelly Tots!
  • Candy canes – either crush and crumble over the top or hang a mini candy cane over the rim of the mug.
  • Popping candy – wildy popular with kids. Sprinkle just before serving and listen as the pops start to sound.
  • Cadbury’s Flake 99s – this is straight out of my childhood. Pick up a pack of Cadbury’s flakes for ice cream and wedge one into the cream.
  • Cinnamon sticks – a healthier option than the Flake. Again, poke it into the cream.

Gourmet hot chocolate ideas

The low-down on how to brew drinking chocolate at home is complete, so let’s get on with perusing some of the best hot chocolate drinks around.

Unusual hot chocolate flavours

Salted Honey Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Salted Honey Hot Chocolate
Earl Grey Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Earl Grey infused drinking chocolate with whipped cream.
Blackberry Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
2 glasses of Blackberry Hot Chocolate with cream, coulis, marshmallows and blackberry
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Salted caramel flavoured chocolate drink with whipped cream and caramel sauce.
Chocolate Matcha with Coconut and White Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Coconut Chocolate Matcha - featured image
Billionaires Caramel Chocolate Drink
Check out this recipe
Billionaires caramel chocolate drink.
Caramelised White Chocolate “Hot Chocolate”
Check out this recipe
Caramelised White Chocolate - Hot Chocolate
Chai Spiced Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
A cup of spiced hot chocolate with whipped cream, ground spice and star anise garnish
Peppermint Tea Mexican Chocolate Drink
Check out this recipe
Peppermint tea Mexican chocolate drink with candy cane and mint leaves.
Whipped Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Whipped chocolate drink topped with mini marshmallows.

Chocolate drinks with alcohol

Maple Bourbon Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
A bourbon hot chocolate with whipped cream and sprinkles
Baileys Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Close up of Baileys hot chocolate with whipped cream and chocolate flakes.
Rum and Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
A milky drink topped with cream and candy cane chunks.
Red Wine Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
A hot cocoa drink dribbling over the side of the glass.

Best hot chocolate recipes for kids

White Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Hands holding a cup of white hot chocolate drink topped with cream and sprinkles.
Pink Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Pink coloured white chocolate drink with whipped cream and rose petals/.
Birthday Cake Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Funfetti decorated chocolate drinks.
Cookies and Cream Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Cookies and cream chocolate drink topped with cream, cookies and white chocolate.

Christmas Eve hot chocolate ideas

Try jazzing up your favourite drinking chocolate recipe by decorating with a marshmallow snowman for a festive transformation or try your hand at one of these dedicated Christmas recipes.

Candy Cane Hot Chocolate with Popping Candy
Check out this recipe
An enamel mug (with the word love on it) of hot chocolate with cream, crushed candy cane pieces and popping candy. Christmas decorations in the background
Terry’s Chocolate Orange Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
close up of a terrys chocolate orange hot chocolate drink.
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Gingerbread hot cocoa drink with whipped cream and ground spices.

Healthier chocolate drink recipes

Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Three servings of healthy hot chocolate in mixed glasses.
Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate
Check out this recipe
Dairy free drinking chocolate with coconut whipped cream.

If you have enjoyed this gourmet hot chocolate recipe compilation then take a look at some of my other collections:

  • Food on Bonfire Night: How and What to Serve at Home
  • Easy, Quick & Fun Summer Food Hacks
  • How to create a Picnic worth heading outdoors for
  • Rice Krispie Treats: The Ultimate Collection
  • Chai Spice Recipe Collection

And feel free to leave a comment below – why not let me know which recipe you can’t wait to try out.

(Visited 104 times, 1 visits today)

More Hot Drinks Recipes

  • Glass mug of white chocolate mocha coffee with whipped cream and cocoa powder.
    White Mocha
  • Close-up image of a glass oh oatmilk honey latte.
    Oatmilk Honey Latte
  • Close-up of a gingerbread latte with cream and sprinkles.
    Gingerbread Latte
  • Close-up of Christmas latte with whipped cream and sprinkles.
    Christmas Latte with Warninks Advocaat

Reader Interactions

Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  1. Shareba

    November 09, 2021 at 9:31 pm

    Thanks for including my spiced hot cocoa!

    Reply
    • Jane Saunders

      November 09, 2021 at 10:23 pm

      My pleasure – such a great recipe.

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

Headshot of jane Saunders (Jane Coupland) Food Photographer and Blogger at LittleSugarSnaps

Hello there. I'm Jane. Welcome to LittleSugarSnaps - my place for sharing enticing and easy sweet and savoury recipes with a side helping of cocktails.

More about me →

Inforgraphic with image and text overlay for newsletter subscription

POPULAR RECIPES

  • An Amaretto sour cocktail garnished with egg white foam and cocktail cherries
    Disaronno Sour (Amaretto Sour)
  • Cheese Savoury Sandwich for Afternoon Tea cut dainty and served on pretty crockery with a rocket leaf garnish
    Cheese Savoury Recipe for Afternoon Tea Sandwiches
  • Close up of a slice of minced beef pie with peas and gravy.
    Minced Beef and Onion Pie (Shortcrust Pastry)
  • An espresso martini with Baileys topped with grated chocolate.
    Baileys Espresso Martini
  • Close up of egg mayo sandwiches - featured image
    Egg Mayo Sandwich
  • TRIPLE CHOCOLATE LAYER CAKE
    Triple Chocolate Layer Cake with Marshmallow Frosting

As Seen In...

Footer

^ back to top

SIGN UP! for emails and updates

Information

  • Privacy Policy
  • Advertising
  • Accessibility Policy

About

  • About Jane
  • Contact Me
  • Work with Me

Featured In...

Featured in image with text only

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

All content is © 2014-2022 Jane Saunders & LittleSugarSnaps.com. All rights reserved.

Please ask permission before using any images or recipes.