Description
A thick, velvety homemade hot chocolate made with real chocolate, milk, and salted caramel sauce. This comforting drink is ready in just 15 minutes and offers a rich, customizable flavor perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup dark chocolate chunks (70% cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- ½ teaspoon sea salt flakes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream)
Instructions
- Pour milk into a 2-3 quart saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil). This takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Add semi-sweet chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, and cocoa powder. Whisk constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in caramel sauce, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and sea salt flakes until fully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or salt if desired. If using a milk frother, froth the hot chocolate directly in the pot or mug.
- Pour hot chocolate into mugs, leaving room for toppings.
- In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spoon whipped cream on top of each mug. Optionally drizzle with extra caramel or add chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not boil the milk as it can scorch and change the flavor. For a dairy-free version, substitute oat milk and use dairy-free chocolate and caramel. The hot chocolate base can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge; reheat gently with a splash of milk if too thick. Do not freeze as the texture may change.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 38
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
Keywords: hot chocolate, salted caramel, homemade hot chocolate, winter drinks, cozy recipes, easy dessert drinks, caramel hot chocolate