Spiced Maple Hot Chocolate

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Spiced Maple Hot Chocolate is the cozy drink you didn't know you needed. With its rich, creamy texture and warming spices, this drink is perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. It's a delightful twist on a classic favorite with a touch of maple sweetness.

Ingredients for Spiced Maple Hot Chocolate

Whole milk forms the base of our hot chocolate, providing a creamy and rich texture. Heavy cream adds even more indulgence, making the drink lusciously thick. Maple syrup is the star sweetener here, offering a nuanced sweetness that complements the chocolate perfectly. We use unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep, intense chocolate flavor. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and complexity, elevating the drink beyond your regular hot chocolate. A splash of vanilla extract rounds everything out, while a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra chocolatey kick, add a handful of chocolate chips to the pan.
  • Adjust the spices to your taste; a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg can add a delightful twist.
  • To prevent a skin from forming on top, give it a quick stir before serving if it sits for a bit.

Serving Suggestions

A warm slice of banana bread or a buttery croissant pairs beautifully with this spiced maple hot chocolate. The sweet and spiced flavors complement each other perfectly, making for a truly indulgent treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
Reduce the maple syrup to 1/4 cup or adjust to your taste preference for a less sweet drink.

Spiced Maple Hot Chocolate Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Set the pan over medium heat and let it warm up gently. You want it hot but not boiling, which helps prevent the dairy from curdling.

Now, stir in the maple syrup, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and that tiny pinch of salt. Use a whisk to combine everything thoroughly. The goal here is a smooth, cohesive mixture with no lumps, so keep whisking until you achieve that silky texture.

Once it's heated through and perfectly smooth, take it off the heat. Carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and for a little extra flair, pop a cinnamon stick into each mug. Serve right away and enjoy every sip!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines rich chocolate with warm spices for a unique flavor experience.
  • Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for an indulgent treat anytime.
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings or spices.

Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Whipped cream for topping
Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat.
2. Stir in the maple syrup, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and heated through, but not boiling.
4. Remove from heat and pour into mugs.
5. Top with whipped cream and garnish with cinnamon sticks.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

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