Hey y’all! There’s nothing quite as comforting as a mug of rich, creamy Stovetop Hot Chocolate, especially when the weather turns chilly. Whether you’re planning a cozy family night, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this homemade hot cocoa delivers pure delight in every sip. It’s easy, luxurious, and sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers of all ages. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Hot Chocolate
- Ultra creamy and rich thanks to real chocolate and whole milk.
- Ready in just 10 minutes for instant cozy comfort.
- Totally customizable with endless mix-in options.
- No powdered mixes—just wholesome, pantry ingredients!
- Perfect for holidays, snow days, or evenings by the fire.
Stovetop Hot Chocolate Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows, for serving (optional)
How to Make Stovetop Hot Chocolate
Step 1: Heat the Dairy
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is steaming but not boiling (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 2: Whisk in Chocolate and Cocoa
Add the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) and cocoa powder. Whisk constantly until both are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy—about 2 minutes more.
Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and the pinch of salt. Keep whisking to fully dissolve the sugar and blend flavors, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Serve Your Stovetop Hot Chocolate
Pour immediately into mugs, top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and enjoy piping hot!
Notes & Helpful Tips
- For extra silky hot chocolate, use a hand blender to froth the mixture right before serving.
- Make it dairy-free by swapping in your favorite non-dairy milk and coconut cream—see tips here.
- Chop chocolate finely so it melts quickly and evenly, preventing lumps (learn how at Bon Appetit).
Stovetop Hot Chocolate Variations
- Peppermint Hot Cocoa: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.
- Spiced Mexican Hot Chocolate: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Mocha Hot Chocolate: Dissolve 1 tablespoon espresso powder into the milk as it heats.
Required Equipment for Stovetop Hot Chocolate
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof mugs
Storage Instructions & Shelf Life
Store any leftover stovetop hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring constantly to maintain creaminess.
Stovetop Hot Chocolate: Serving Suggestions
- Pair with homemade cookies, biscotti, or chewy chocolate chip cookies.
- Top with extra whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for café-style flair.
- Serve as a dessert drink alongside a slice of chocolate cake or fresh fruit.
Pro Tips for the Best Stovetop Hot Chocolate
- Use high-quality chocolate for richer flavor—learn more about chocolate choices at Serious Eats.
- Don’t overboil the milk—heat until just steaming for a silky texture.
- For extra decadence, add a tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk just before serving.
Stovetop Hot Chocolate FAQ
- Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?
- Yes! Prepare up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate. Reheat over low heat, stirring well.
- Can I use different types of chocolate?
- Absolutely! Milk, dark, or even white chocolate all work beautifully—just adjust the sugar to taste.
- Is stovetop hot chocolate gluten-free?
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your chocolate and cocoa powder labels.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2 large mugs
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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1In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
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2Add the milk and heavy cream gradually, whisking continuously until smooth.
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3Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
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4Whisk in the chocolate chips until melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
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5Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and pour into mugs.
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6Top with whipped cream if desired and serve hot.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
320 caloriescal
Protein:
7 gg
Fat:
18 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
34 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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