This recipe of Italian hot chocolate is not your cocoa. It’s rich, velvety and glossy. This hot chocolate is made of real dark chocolate. It’s perfect for slow cozy evenings and it will satisfy your chocolate cravings.
A Short Story
Whenever winter begins, my hot chocolate cravings also start with it. I make this Italian hot chocolate on cold winter nights when I am craving something rich in chocolate. It comes together in minutes and gives perfect cafe style taste and silky in texture.
For another creamy, cafe-style beverage, try this Iced Pistachio Frappe from our drinks collection.
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Ingredients
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1.5 Cups Milk
- 2 tablespoon Sugar
- 2 tablespoon cocoa powder(unsweetened)
- 3.5 ounces Dark Chocolate (chopped into small pieces)
Instructions
In a small bowl whisk 1⁄2 cup milk and cornstarch set aside
In a small/medium pot, heat milk, add sugar and cocoa powder, start whisking until smoothly combined.
Milk mixture starts boiling now add Dark chocolate and cornstarch mixture.
Whisk for approximately 5 minutes until hot chocolate becomes a little thick.
Serve immediately with whipped cream and chocolate shave.
Enjoy Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe Ready!
Why This Recipe Works?
- The cornstarch added in this hot chocolate creates thickness and texture
- The depth and richness are due to dark chocolate
- Cook on low heat gives the right cocoa texture and not grainy
Substitutions
- Milk: Almond milk or oat milk can be used instead of regular milk
- Sugar: Swap with honey or maple syrup for sweetness
- Dark Chocolate: Semi sweet chocolate also works but it will add more sweetness to the hot chocolate milk so adjust sugar accordingly.
If you enjoy flavorful drinks, you’ll love this Virgin Sunset Mocktail Recipe too.
Variations
- Healthier Version: Add less sugar and use low fat milk in hot chocolate recipe
- Extra Rich Version: Add one tbs of cream at the end for more richness in your hot chocolate.
- Cinnamon Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon powder for cinnamon flavor hot chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with croissants or biscotti. Even Butter cookies would be a great option.
- Serve it at winter holidays gatherings.
- Great as a drink dessert for a warm ending to the night.
Nutrition (Estimated Values Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbs: ~32g
- Fat: ~14g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate the leftover hot chocolate in an air lock container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat on a low heat and keep stirring while reheating
- If the hot chocolate becomes too thick add a splash of milk when reheating.
Top tip
Always cook on low heat after adding cornstarch to avoid lumps and ensure a silky finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cooking on high heat can cause lumps
- Using sweetened cocoa will result in overly sweet hot chocolate
- Not chopping the chocolate finely will slower the process of melting
Looking for more delicious beverages? Check out our collection of drinks recipes for refreshing and cozy ideas.
FAQs
Italian hot chocolate is much thicker and richer than regular hot chocolate. Instead of being milk-based and drinkable, it has a pudding-like texture made by thickening chocolate with starch, giving it an intense chocolate flavor.
Yes, traditional Italian hot chocolate is meant to be very thick almost spoonable. It’s closer to melted chocolate than a typical cocoa drink, which is what makes it unique.
Italian hot chocolate is usually made with milk, dark chocolate or cocoa powder, sugar and a thickening agent such as cornstarch. Some versions also include vanilla for added flavor.
Absolutely. Italian hot chocolate is easy to make at home with a few basic ingredients and a saucepan. The key is slowly heating and stirring until it reaches its signature thick consistency.
Italian hot chocolate is rich and chocolate-forward rather than overly sweet. You can adjust the sugar level to suit your taste, especially if you prefer dark chocolate flavors.
In Italy, hot chocolate is often enjoyed as a morning treat or afternoon indulgence, sometimes paired with a pastry. It’s less commonly served as an everyday breakfast drink.
Products used in the recipe
Argo Corn Starch 16 oz. Box - PACK OF 2
Argo Corn Starch thickens sauces and soups quickly for perfect homemade meals.
GHIRARDELLI Intense Dark 86% Cacao Chocolate Bar, 3.17 oz – Bold Extra Dark Chocolate with Rich Cocoa Notes
Enjoy rich, bold dark chocolate that boosts focus and satisfies your sweet cravings healthily.
E Guittard Cocoa Powder, Unsweetened Rouge Red Dutch Process Cocoa, 8oz Can
Enhance your recipes with rich, smooth flavor using E Guittard Rouge Red Dutch Process Cocoa.
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Pairing
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