Are you craving a warm, comforting hug in a mug? Look no further than this incredibly easy single-serving hot chocolate recipe! Forget those messy, overly-sweet packets – this recipe lets you customize your hot chocolate experience to perfection, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s the ultimate quick dinner idea (or really, quick dessert idea!) for a chilly evening, a perfect pick-me-up after a long day, or a delicious way to treat yourself. This recipe is a delicious dish that fits perfectly into your healthy meals routine, too – you control the sweetness!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative like almond or oat milk)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste; adjust for your desired sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of cocoa powder!
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Heat gently: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Heat the mixture, stirring frequently, until it's steaming and the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not let it boil.
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Pour and enjoy: Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug. Top with your desired toppings, such as mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings, and enjoy immediately!
Tips for the Perfect Cup:
- Milk matters: Whole milk creates a richer, creamier hot chocolate. However, you can experiment with different types of milk to find your favorite. Non-dairy milk alternatives might require a slight adjustment in sweetness.
- Sweetness control: Start with 1 tablespoon of sugar and adjust to your preference. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or chili powder for a warm and spicy twist. This is also a great way to experiment with different flavor combinations.
- Chocolate variations: Use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor, or add a square of dark chocolate to the mixture while heating for an even richer experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using whole milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Nutritional values will change based on milk and sweetener choices.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 6-8g
- Sugar: 8-12g
- Protein: 6-8g
Variations:
- Mocha Hot Chocolate: Add 1-2 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee to the mixture for a mocha flavor.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper and a cinnamon stick while heating for a spicy kick.
This single-serving hot chocolate recipe is so easy and customizable; it's a perfect addition to your easy recipes collection! It’s a simple pleasure that's big on flavor and even better on a cold night. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Enjoy your delicious, homemade hot chocolate!