๐ Introduction
When the weather turns cold and youโre craving something deep, rich, and a little indulgent, this Dark Hot Chocolate with Amaretto is the ultimate cozy treat. ๐ซ๐
Itโs velvety-smooth, intensely chocolatey, and laced with the warm, nutty sweetness of Amaretto โ an Italian almond liqueur that transforms every sip into pure luxury. Think of it as grown-up hot chocolate done right.
Whether youโre curling up by the fire, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this elegant drink delivers the perfect balance of warmth, richness, and sophistication. โจ
๐งฐ Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Heatproof mugs
- Grater (for chocolate shavings, optional)
๐ Ingredients
For 2 Servings:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of your choice) ๐ฅ
- ยฝ cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
- 3 oz (85g) dark chocolate (70โ80% cocoa), finely chopped ๐ซ
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional for thickness)
- 2 Tbsp Amaretto liqueur (or almond extract for a non-alcoholic version) ๐ฐ
- ยฝ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- Whipped cream or milk foam
- Dark chocolate shavings ๐ซ
- Crushed almonds or cocoa dust (optional)
๐ฉโ๐ณ Directions
1. Warm the Base
- In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly, until it begins to steam (donโt let it boil).
2. Melt the Chocolate
- Add chopped dark chocolate and whisk until melted, glossy, and smooth.
3. Add the Flavor
- Stir in Amaretto and vanilla extract.
- Continue whisking gently for another minute to blend the flavors beautifully.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or toasted almonds, and sip slowly. ๐ซโโจ
๐ฝ๏ธ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: ~13 minutes
๐ง Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight jar for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to thin if needed.
- Freezer: Not recommended โ the texture may separate.
๐ฅ Variations
- Mocha Amaretto Hot Chocolate: Add 1 shot of espresso for a rich coffee kick. โ
- White Amaretto Hot Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate โ sweet and creamy. ๐ค
- Spiced Amaretto: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. ๐
- Vegan Option: Use almond milk, coconut cream, and dairy-free chocolate. ๐ฑ
- Dessert Garnish: Serve with biscotti or an almond cookie on the side โ perfection! ๐ช
โ 10 FAQs
- Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! Replace Amaretto with ยฝ tsp almond extract for a non-alcoholic version. - What kind of chocolate works best?
Use high-quality dark chocolate (70โ80%) for the best flavor and smoothness. - Can I use Amaretto syrup instead of liqueur?
Absolutely โ it adds the same almond flavor without the alcohol. - Can I make it extra thick?
Simmer an extra minute or add a touch more cornstarch for an Italian-style texture. - Can I serve this cold?
Yes! Chill it for a decadent iced version or blend with ice for a frozen treat. โ๏ธ - Can I make it dairy-free?
Use oat or almond milk and vegan dark chocolate โ still rich and creamy! ๐ฑ - Can I double the recipe?
Definitely โ it scales beautifully for gatherings or parties. - What toppings pair well?
Whipped cream, chocolate curls, toasted almonds, or even a drizzle of Amaretto syrup. - Can I use cocoa powder only?
You can, but the melted dark chocolate adds that signature European richness. ๐ซ - Whatโs the best way to serve it?
In pre-warmed mugs with a dusting of cocoa or shaved chocolate on top. โโจ
๐ Conclusion
This Dark Hot Chocolate with Amaretto is the perfect blend of indulgence and elegance โ deeply chocolatey, creamy, and kissed with that irresistible almond warmth. ๐ซ๐ฐโ
Itโs everything you want in a cozy drink: simple to make, decadently rich, and utterly soul-warming. Each sip feels like a little European getaway in a cup โ luxurious, comforting, and unforgettable.
Perfect for chilly nights, after-dinner sipping, or a romantic winter treat, this drink is proof that hot chocolate can be grown-up and glamorous. โจ

๐ซโโจ Dark Hot Chocolate with Amaretto โ A Luxurious Sip of Chocolate Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Heat over medium-low, whisking constantly, until it begins to steam (donโt let it boil).
- Add chopped dark chocolate and whisk until melted, glossy, and smooth.
- Stir in Amaretto and vanilla extract.
- Continue whisking gently for another minute to blend the flavors beautifully.
- Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or toasted almonds, and sip slowly. ๐ซโโจ
Notes
Yes! Replace Amaretto with ยฝ tsp almond extract for a non-alcoholic version. What kind of chocolate works best?
Use high-quality dark chocolate (70โ80%) for the best flavor and smoothness. Can I use Amaretto syrup instead of liqueur?
Absolutely โ it adds the same almond flavor without the alcohol. Can I make it extra thick?
Simmer an extra minute or add a touch more cornstarch for an Italian-style texture. Can I serve this cold?
Yes! Chill it for a decadent iced version or blend with ice for a frozen treat. โ๏ธ Can I make it dairy-free?
Use oat or almond milk and vegan dark chocolate โ still rich and creamy! ๐ฑ Can I double the recipe?
Definitely โ it scales beautifully for gatherings or parties. What toppings pair well?
Whipped cream, chocolate curls, toasted almonds, or even a drizzle of Amaretto syrup. Can I use cocoa powder only?
You can, but the melted dark chocolate adds that signature European richness. ๐ซ Whatโs the best way to serve it?
In pre-warmed mugs with a dusting of cocoa or shaved chocolate on top. โโจ ๐ Conclusion This Dark Hot Chocolate with Amaretto is the perfect blend of indulgence and elegance โ deeply chocolatey, creamy, and kissed with that irresistible almond warmth. ๐ซ๐ฐโ Itโs everything you want in a cozy drink: simple to make, decadently rich, and utterly soul-warming. Each sip feels like a little European getaway in a cup โ luxurious, comforting, and unforgettable. Perfect for chilly nights, after-dinner sipping, or a romantic winter treat, this drink is proof that hot chocolate can be grown-up and glamorous. โจ