French Hot Chocolate Recipe
There is something magical about a warm cup of French hot chocolate on a cold winter day… and this French hot chocolate recipe captures that cozy winter feeling perfectly. For anyone who loves chocolate or wants to elevate their holiday season with something special, this recipe is the perfect winter treat.
This French hot chocolate recipe stands out because of its rich, velvety texture. Instead of using cocoa powder and light milk, this version uses real chocolate melted slowly with warm milk and a touch of cream. The result is a smooth, glossy drink that tastes like a chocolate truffle in liquid form. It’s incredibly satisfying and makes a beautiful addition to any Christmas morning breakfast or cozy night by the fire.
This recipe fits perfectly with the style of Elevate Kitchen recipes: simple, approachable, and full of flavor. Just like our Easy Cinnamon Rolls and Easy Christmas Cookies, this recipe uses everyday ingredients but creates something truly special. It’s a great way to bring a little European café charm into your home, especially during the winter season.
One of the benefits of making French hot chocolate at home is how customizable it is. You can choose dark chocolate for a deep, intense flavor or semi-sweet chocolate for a balanced sweetness. A splash of cream gives it a silky finish, and a topping of whipped cream or marshmallows adds holiday charm. You can even adjust it based on your preference—thicker, thinner, sweeter, or more intense.
Whether you’re preparing a comforting drink for yourself, serving hot chocolate as part of a holiday brunch, or surprising guests with a decadent treat, this Parisian-style chocolate drink always impresses. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to revisit all winter long. The aroma, the richness, and the warmth make it an instant winter classic.
French Hot Chocolate for Cozy Winter Nights
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
- Add the chopped chocolate and whisk gently until melted and fully combined.
- Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Add sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and serve warm. Add whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) for best flavor.
- Sweetness varies by chocolate brand—taste and adjust sugar as needed.
- For extra thickness, simmer for 1–2 additional minutes.
- A milk frother creates a café-style finish.
- Great resource: Cuisinart Precision Master Stand Mixer for making whipped cream at home.
Variations
- Mocha: Add 1 tbsp instant espresso.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Add 1–2 drops peppermint extract.
- Kids’ Version: Use semi-sweet chocolate for a milder taste.
- Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
