Ingredients:

  • cups Whole Milk
  • /2 cup Heavy Cream
  • /4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • /3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • ounces Dark Chocolate (70% Cocoa minimum), finely chopped
  • teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • A generous pinch of Salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In the saucepan (before turning on the heat), whisk together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt.
  2. Create a Slurry: Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the whole milk until a smooth, thick paste forms, ensuring no dry pockets of cocoa remain.
  3. Incorporate Liquids: Pour in the remaining milk and the heavy cream. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat.
  4. Gentle Heating: Heat the mixture, whisking frequently and scraping the bottom, until steam begins to rise and small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil).
  5. Melt Chocolate: Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Add the finely chopped dark chocolate. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and fully incorporated, resulting in a glossy liquid.
  6. Simmer & Thicken: Allow the hot chocolate to simmer very gently for 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally, to allow the cocoa flavor to bloom and slightly thicken the texture.
  7. Finish Flavour: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. Serve: Pour immediately into mugs and top with desired garnishes.