Indulgent French Hot Chocolate Recipe (Chocolat Chaud)
Rich, decadent, and creamy, this French Hot Chocolate is perfect for the serious chocolate lovers out there. And the best part? You can whip up this dreamy beverage in under 10 minutes!
This delightful hot chocolate, known as Chocolat Chaud, is a staple at outdoor cafés across France, especially during the holiday season. For an adult twist, you can pair it with the classic Vin Chaud. It’s an absolute treat on a chilly winter day!
Why Make This Recipe
I’ll never forget my first experience with Angelina’s hot chocolate in Paris. The look of delight on my daughters’ faces was priceless. It’s a chocolate lover’s paradise! Since those trips to Paris don’t happen often, I decided to create my own version of this luxurious hot chocolate, mirroring the deep, rich flavors of the original.
Here are a few compelling reasons why you need this recipe in your life:
- The richest, most chocolatey hot chocolate you’ll ever taste.
- Simple to prepare with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients.
- Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator!
🥗 Ingredients
- Milk: I recommend using 2% milk for a good balance of creaminess, although whole milk is great too. Avoid nonfat or skim milk for best results.
- Heavy Cream: This ingredient is what gives the hot chocolate an amazing richness. If you prefer something lighter, you can substitute with light cream or half-and-half.
- Dark Chocolate: Opt for chocolate with at least 60% cacao for a perfect balance. Semisweet chocolate is a good alternative, but the quality of chocolate matters!
- Maple Syrup: It adds a delightful sweetness that melts perfectly into the drink. Brown sugar or honey can work as substitutes too.
- Instant Coffee or Espresso Powder: This enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. Feel free to leave it out if you don’t have it on hand.
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
To begin, combine 1 cup of 2% milk and ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the milk just starts bubbling at the edges.
Next, reduce the heat to low and add 4 ounces of finely chopped dark chocolate. Whisk continually until all the chocolate has melted into the creamy mixture.
Now, whisk in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Transfer the delicious liquid into a large measuring cup or pitcher to make pouring into mugs easier.
Finally, serve with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings, or add a handful of mini marshmallows for a fun touch!
Storage Tips
This hot chocolate is undeniably rich! If you find yourself with leftovers, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to revive that creamy goodness.
🧐 Recipe FAQs for French Hot Chocolate
What is different about French Hot Chocolate?
French Hot Chocolate is typically thicker and richer than your average hot chocolate. It is made with milk and/or cream instead of water, resulting in a creamy, indulgent drink that feels like drinking pure chocolate—perfect for chocolate aficionados!
Can you make this hot chocolate in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Just be sure to reheat it slowly to avoid curdling the milk or creating a skin on top.
How can I make my hot chocolate extra special?
Try adding a splash of peppermint extract, cinnamon, or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavors. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate for a unique twist!
Can I use chocolate chips instead of bar chocolate?
While you can, high-quality chocolate bars tend to melt better and provide a smoother texture. If using chocolate chips, make sure they are of good quality too!
What’s the best way to serve French Hot Chocolate?
Serve it in small espresso cups for a decadent experience. You can pair it with some crunchy biscotti or a pastry for the full café experience!
