Homemade Hot chocolate is hands down one of my favourite winter drinks! When the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like a cup of creamy hot chocolate to warm you up. This recipe is super simple, but oh-so-cozy, and it’s one of those treats I love making for my family. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or looking for something to sip while you prep for the holidays, this creamy homemade hot chocolate hits the spot every time. The best part? You only need 6 simple ingredients and about 10 minutes to make it!
This homemade hot chocolate recipe is the perfect thing to enjoy during the colder months—whether you’re winding down after a day outdoors or hosting a little holiday gathering. It’s rich, creamy, and the kind of thick hot chocolate that just makes you feel good inside. Plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking. It’s definitely a family favourite around here!
Ingredients Explained
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy hot cocoa:
- Water – This is the base of our drink. If you’re using filtered water, it’ll help the flavours shine even more.
- Whole Milk or Half and Half (or almond milk for a dairy-free version) – This adds that rich, smooth texture that makes homemade hot chocolate so comforting. You can also try coconut milk as a creamy, dairy-free alternative that complements the chocolate perfectly!
- Cocoa (Dutch cocoa works best!) – Dutch cocoa gives the drink a deep, velvety chocolate flavour that’s hard to beat. For an even richer flavour, try using unsweetened cocoa powder or bittersweet chocolate. Milk chocolate chunks or chips can be used as well.
- Honey or Sugar (adjust to your preferred sweetness) – You can use honey for a natural sweetness or stick with sugar if you prefer. For a richer taste, swap in a little maple syrup.
- Salt – A little salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavour.
Instructions
Making this homemade hot chocolate is so easy! Here’s how you do it:
- Add all the ingredients—water, milk, cocoa (or real chocolate), honey (or sugar), and salt—into a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir everything together until the honey melts and it’s all combined.
- Heat it up! Keep stirring as it heats up. Once it’s piping hot, take it off the stove.
- Serve it up! Pour your hot cocoa into mugs and top it with whipped cream or mini marshmallows. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chocolate shavings is always a nice touch.
The Best Homemade Creamy Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk or half and half or almond milk
- 3/4 cup cocoa Dutch Cocoa is preferred
- 2/3 cup honey or sugar adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Once it’s piping hot, pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and marshmallows.
Nutrition
Alternative Instructions (for Slow Cooker Lovers!)
If you want to take it easy and let the slow cooker do the work for you, this recipe is perfect for that too! Combine your chopped chocolate (milk or bittersweet chocolate), unsweetened cocoa powder, and milk of choice in your slow cooker. Let it melt together on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s thick and creamy. This method is perfect if you’re hosting or need to keep your hot drink warm for a while.
Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
Want to prep ahead for the next time you need a quick fix? You can make your own homemade hot chocolate mix by combining the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a mason jar. Then, when you’re ready for a hot cocoa mix, just stir in the dry ingredients with your milk of choice. For an extra indulgent twist, add a bit of cocoa butter to the mix for a super creamy texture.
A Twist on Christmas Morning
For a delicious twist on Christmas morning, try adding peppermint extract, candy canes, or a handful of chocolate chips to your creamy hot chocolate. This holiday-inspired treat will warm your heart as much as your hands! You can also drizzle a bit of caramel syrup for extra sweetness or add a sprinkle of sea salt for a nice contrast.
Helpful Equipment
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- Saucepan (or slow cooker): Any medium-sized saucepan will do—just make sure it’s big enough to hold everything without overflowing.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: You’ll want to keep stirring to avoid any lumps from the cocoa powder.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Helps make sure you’re adding just the right amount of everything!
Tips and Troubleshooting
Adjust the sweetness: If you find the hot chocolate isn’t sweet enough, just add a little more honey or sugar.
Consistency: If you like your hot chocolate extra thick, try adding a bit more milk or even some cream for a richer taste. Or for even more decadence, add a tablespoon of cocoa butter to make your homemade hot chocolate extra creamy!
Dairy-free?: No problem! Almond milk or coconut milk works just as well as dairy, and you can even sweeten it with maple syrup if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
This hot chocolate is great all on its own, but here are a few ideas to take it up a notch:
Serve it with some homemade cookies or a slice of gingerbread for an extra cozy treat.
Add peppermint sticks or a little peppermint extract for a minty twist—especially great around the holidays.
Want something a little richer? Try adding a drizzle of caramel syrup or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
You could even put it in mason jars as a fun gift idea for the holidays.
How to Store
If you happen to have leftovers (though I can’t imagine that happening!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
This creamy hot chocolate recipe is everything you need to stay cozy this winter. It’s easy to make, delicious, and guaranteed to warm you up on the coldest days. I hope you give it a try and share your creations with me—tag me on Instagram @LittleMountainRanch so I can see your beautiful mugs of hot chocolate! Don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for more winter recipes and homesteading tips, too!
