How to Make Homemade Hot Chocolate (Rich and Creamy)

When the weather is cold outside and I crave hot cocoa, my decadent homemade hot chocolate recipe that I have been making for years is what I make. This version uses real bittersweet chocolate chips, creamy milk, and a touch of sweetened condensed milk for a silky, luxurious drink that feels like a hug in a cup.

If you haven’t tried making homemade hot chocolate then you are in for the treat of your life. This hot chocolate is thick, smooth, and deeply chocolatey and perfect for holidays, movie nights, or anytime you want something special.

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Ingredients

• bittersweet chocolate chips
• milk (whole milk works best for richness)
• heavy whipping cream
• sweetened condensed milk
• vanilla extract
• salt

Note: Be sure to use bittersweet chocolate chips. Semi-sweet chocolate chips will not work as well in this recipe and can make the hot chocolate overly sweet without the same depth of flavor.

What You Will Need

• Large Pot
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowls

Watch the Video Tutorial

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Warm the milk and cream

In a large saucepan, combine 6 cups milk and 1½ cups heavy whipping cream. Set the saucepan over medium-low heat and begin to gently warm the mixture. You don’t want it to boil—just slowly heat until it’s warm and steamy.

Step 2: Add sweetened condensed milk

Once the milk and cream are warm, stir in ½ cup sweetened condensed milk Whisk until the sweetened condensed milk is fully incorporated. Continue to heat gently and bring the mixture to a light simmer, stirring occasionally.

You should see small bubbles forming around the edges of the pan, but no rolling boil.

Step 3: Add salt, vanilla, and chocolate

When the mixture is lightly simmering, add ⅛ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1½ cups bittersweet chocolate chips. Whisk constantly as the chocolate chips melt into the hot milk mixture. Continue stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Simmer low and slow

Keep the hot chocolate over low heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently. Simmering gently helps the flavors blend and gives you a thicker, richer hot chocolate. When it’s velvety, smooth, and nicely thickened, remove the pan from the heat.

How to Serve

Carefully ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately.

Top with your favorite toppings, such as:

• Whipped cream
• Mini marshmallows
• Shaved chocolate
• Crushed peppermint
• Caramel drizzle

Drink alongside your favorite cake or cookies. It is delicious any way you try it.

This hot chocolate is rich and simply amazing. Once you try it, you may never go back to the instant packets again!

Tips for the Best Homemade Hot Chocolate

• Use quality chocolate: Since chocolate is the star, bittersweet chocolate chips (or chopped bittersweet chocolate) give the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the salt: That tiny ⅛ teaspoon of salt boosts the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Low and slow: Keep the heat gentle. Boiling can scorch the milk and affect the texture.
• Adjust thickness:
  • For a thicker hot chocolate, simmer a little longer or add a few extra tablespoons of chocolate chips.
  • For a lighter version, add a splash more milk to thin it out.

Variations

• Mocha Hot Chocolate:
  Stir in a shot of espresso or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee.
• Peppermint Hot Chocolate:
  Add ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (start small and taste).
• Spiced Hot Chocolate:
  Add a pinch of cinnamon or a tiny pinch of cayenne for a gentle heat.
• Kids’ Party Version:
  Keep the recipe the same, then set up a topping bar with marshmallows, sprinkles, crushed cookies, and candy canes.

How to Store Leftover Hot Chocolate

If you happen to have leftovers:

• Let the hot chocolate cool to room temperature.
• Pour it into an airtight container or jar.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat

• Pour the desired amount into a saucepan.
• Warm over low heat, stirring often, until heated through.
• Do not boil. You can add a splash of milk if it has thickened too much in the fridge.

You can also reheat gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one.

Frequently Asked Questions

This homemade hot chocolate is a cozy, comforting treat that’s perfect for family nights, holiday gatherings, or anytime you need a warm, chocolatey moment.