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French Hot Chocolate for Cozy Winter Nights

This French Hot Chocolate Recipe creates a rich, silky drink made with real chocolate, warm milk, and cream. It tastes like melted chocolate from a Paris café and is perfect for Christmas morning, cozy winter nights, or a comforting holiday treat.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: French
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate chopped
  • 1 tbsp sugar optional, depending on sweetness
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract optional

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
  2. Add the chopped chocolate and whisk gently until melted and fully combined.
  3. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
  4. Add sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  6. 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.