Decadent French Hot Chocolate Recipe & Guide
Rachel Mills
French hot chocolate, known in France as "chocolat chaud," is nothing short of a liquid luxury. This rich beverage, far removed from the sugary packets of instant cocoa familiar to many, embodies the essence of chocolate in its most velvety form. Unlike its counterparts, French hot chocolate is renowned for its thick consistency and profound depth of flavor, making it a sought-after comfort during the chillier seasons and a gourmet delight year-round.
Prep Time 3 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons powdered sugar adjust based on your preference for sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder optional, but enhances the chocolate flavor
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate at least 70% cocoa, finely chopped
- Whipped cream for serving
Heat Milk and Cream:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch for small bubbles to appear around the edges of the saucepan, indicating the mixture is hot enough. Be careful not to bring it to a boil.
Melt Chocolate:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the chopped bittersweet chocolate, stirring continuously until the chocolate has completely melted into the milk and cream mixture. If the chocolate doesn’t melt thoroughly, return the saucepan to low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the bottom from scorching.
Storing Leftovers:
If you have leftovers, allow the hot chocolate to cool to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy again. It might thicken upon cooling, so you can add a little milk while reheating to adjust the consistency.