Spiced Hot Chocolate

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 2
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Welcome to the ultimate cozy treat: Spiced Hot Chocolate! This recipe adds a warm, spicy twist to a classic favorite, making it perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.

Ingredients for Spiced Hot Chocolate

The base of our delightful drink is a combination of whole milk and heavy cream, which creates a rich, creamy texture. Unsweetened cocoa powder and semisweet chocolate chips bring deep chocolate flavors, while sugar sweetens the deal just right. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a hint of chili powder add warmth and a touch of spice, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Finally, a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt enhance all the flavors. Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks make for a perfect garnish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Adjust the chili powder to your preference if you want more or less heat.
  • Use a milk frother for an extra velvety texture.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond or oat milk, and coconut cream.

Serving Suggestions

This spiced hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with snickerdoodle cookies or a slice of spiced cake. Consider serving it alongside a cheese plate for a delightful contrast. It’s also a perfect companion for a cozy reading session by the fireplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add a richer flavor; just adjust sugar to taste.
How can I make it less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the chili powder for a milder version.
Can I prepare this in advance?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the base in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently when ready to serve.

Spiced Hot Chocolate Recipe Walkthrough

Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into a medium-sized saucepan. Place it over medium heat and allow it to warm until you see steam rising, but be careful not to let it boil. This step is all about patience.

Once the milk and cream mixture is steaming, whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, ground cinnamon, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture looks smooth.

Next, add the semisweet chocolate chips. Stir continuously as they melt, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is silky smooth. Once the chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. This little touch rounds out the flavors beautifully. Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs, and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for that extra festive touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the comforting taste of chocolate with a hint of spice.
  • Quick and easy to prepare — ready in minutes!
  • Perfectly customizable to suit your taste preferences.
  • An excellent way to warm up on a cold day.

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Whipped cream for garnish
Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Warm over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
2. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, ground cinnamon, chili powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Add semisweet chocolate chips, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
6. Serve immediately, enjoying the cozy warmth.

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