French Hot Chocolate | Recipe Hub 97

 French Hot Chocolate

French hot chocolate, also known as "chocolat chaud," is a rich and decadent drink that's perfect for indulging on a chilly day. Here's a traditional recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces dark chocolate (about 60-70% cocoa), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream or marshmallows, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat Milk and Cream:

   • In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it starts to simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

2. Add Chocolate:

   • Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the finely chopped dark chocolate to the hot milk and cream mixture. Let it sit for about 1-2 minutes to soften the chocolate.

3. Stir Until Smooth:

   • Stir the mixture gently with a whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Sweeten and Flavor:

   • Stir in the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the sweetness to your taste preferences by adding more sugar if desired.

5. Serve:

   • Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.

6. Enjoy:

   • Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, velvety French hot chocolate!

Tips:

• Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Aim for chocolate with 60-70% cocoa content.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker hot chocolate, you can increase the ratio of chocolate to milk/cream or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold milk to thicken.
• Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate (such as milk or white chocolate) or add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy twist.

French hot chocolate is a luxurious treat that will warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy every sip of this creamy and comforting drink!