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Ingredients
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Discover warm, delicious, home-style meals — fresh recipes added every day inside Jacky’s Kitchen.
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Equipment
Method
Prepare the Chocolate Base
- Chop dark chocolate into small pieces and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 2 Tbsp of cold milk until smooth — this helps avoid lumps.
Warm the Milk Mixture
- In a saucepan, combine the rest of the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
- Heat gently over medium heat, whisking until the cocoa dissolves and the mixture begins to steam (do not boil).
Melt the Chocolate
- Lower the heat, add the chopped chocolate, and whisk continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Thicken the Hot Chocolate
- Stir in the milk-cornstarch mixture and cook for 2–3 minutes, whisking constantly until thickened and velvety.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Serve & Indulge
- Pour into warm mugs, top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings, and enjoy every luxurious sip. 🍫☕✨
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in a sealed jar for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk, whisking to restore the creamy texture.
Freezer: Not recommended — the texture may change.
🥄 Variations
French Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud): Use only milk and dark chocolate, skip cornstarch for a silkier, drinkable version. 🇫🇷
Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda): Keep the cornstarch for extra thickness — almost pudding-like! 🇮🇹
Spanish Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and serve with churros for dipping. 🇪🇸
Mocha Version: Stir in a shot of espresso for an energizing twist. ☕
White European Hot Chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a creamy, sweet alternative. 🤍
❓ 10 FAQs
What’s the difference between European and American hot chocolate?
European hot chocolate is thicker and richer — more like melted chocolate than cocoa. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Yes! It’ll be sweeter and lighter in flavor. Is cornstarch necessary?
For Italian-style hot chocolate, yes — it gives that signature creamy thickness. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use oat milk and coconut cream for a rich vegan option. 🌱 Can I use cocoa powder only?
You can, but adding real chocolate makes it ultra-luxurious. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes — add more or less sugar to taste. Can I double the recipe for a group?
Definitely — just keep whisking to prevent scorching. Can I flavor it?
Try orange zest, cinnamon, or a dash of chili for extra warmth. 🍊🌶️ Can kids drink this?
Yes, just use milk chocolate or semi-sweet for a milder version. Can I serve it cold?
It’s best hot, but chilled leftovers make an amazing chocolate pudding! 🍮 🏁 Conclusion This European Hot Chocolate is pure comfort in a cup — rich, velvety, and deeply chocolatey. 🍫☕💛 Every sip feels indulgent, like a warm hug from Europe itself. Whether you prefer it French-smooth or Italian-thick, this decadent drink will instantly elevate any chilly day into a cozy, café-style experience. Serve it with whipped cream, a croissant, or churros, and savor the art of true European chocolate bliss. ✨
European hot chocolate is thicker and richer — more like melted chocolate than cocoa. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Yes! It’ll be sweeter and lighter in flavor. Is cornstarch necessary?
For Italian-style hot chocolate, yes — it gives that signature creamy thickness. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use oat milk and coconut cream for a rich vegan option. 🌱 Can I use cocoa powder only?
You can, but adding real chocolate makes it ultra-luxurious. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes — add more or less sugar to taste. Can I double the recipe for a group?
Definitely — just keep whisking to prevent scorching. Can I flavor it?
Try orange zest, cinnamon, or a dash of chili for extra warmth. 🍊🌶️ Can kids drink this?
Yes, just use milk chocolate or semi-sweet for a milder version. Can I serve it cold?
It’s best hot, but chilled leftovers make an amazing chocolate pudding! 🍮 🏁 Conclusion This European Hot Chocolate is pure comfort in a cup — rich, velvety, and deeply chocolatey. 🍫☕💛 Every sip feels indulgent, like a warm hug from Europe itself. Whether you prefer it French-smooth or Italian-thick, this decadent drink will instantly elevate any chilly day into a cozy, café-style experience. Serve it with whipped cream, a croissant, or churros, and savor the art of true European chocolate bliss. ✨