Here’s an absolute hot cocoa recipe you must try
When winter sets in, there’s nothing like a cup of hot cocoa to warm your heart and soul. This beloved drink has been people’s favorite for centuries. No matter what comes new in the market, hot cocoa gains its place at the top repeatedly. Here, we’ll explore hot cocoa recipes and discuss other different ways to get more delightful results.
Hot cocoa and its origin
Hot cocoa is a delicious and comforting drink, making us come back for it again and again.
Cocoa has a very long history. It goes back to the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Aztecs and Mayans. However, cocoa beans are used for a variety of foods and drinks. It wasn’t until the 16th century that it reached Europe.
Europeans began experimenting with it with different foods like sugar and milk, turning accidentally it into the hot cocoa that we know today. And it has continued to serve generation after generation since then, spreading all over the world.
Hot cocoa and hot chocolate
It’s quite common to be confused for hot cocoa and hot chocolate. They both may look the same, but they are not.
Hot cocoa is made from cocoa powder, sugar, and milk. It usually has a light texture and flavor and is less creamy. Hot chocolate, on the other hand, is made using real chocolate, whether in the form of chocolate chips or chopped bars. It is richer and creamier, with a deeper flavor of chocolate. However, both have their unique qualities and one’s preference may vary.
Hot cocoa ingredients
To prepare a single cup of delicious hot cocoa on your own:
- Cocoa powder (2 cups)
- Powdered sugar (2 cups)
- Non-fat dry milk powder (2 cups)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Cornstarch (2 teaspoons)
These are some commonly used ingredients to make a hot cup of cocoa at home. The quantity for each ingredient may vary.
Hot cocoa mix recipe
Even though the market is full of ready-made cocoa mix, it surely can’t be compared to homemade hot cocoa recipes. Here’s the simplest way to prepare your hot cocoa mix at home.
- First, ensure all the ingredients are sifted well. This helps get a smooth mix.
- Put cocoa powder, sugar (powdered), dry milk powder, salt, and cornstarch in a bowl and mix them well using a spoon.
- Take 2-3 tablespoons of the mix into a cup.
- Pour the hot milk and stir until it is properly mixed.
- Additionally, you can top it with marshmallows, chocolate syrup, etc.
Make hot chocolate with cocoa powder and milk
You do need ‘milk’ to enhance the flavor and creaminess of your homemade hot cocoa drink. Many use hot water instead of milk, though. However, in most cases, the best flavor is achieved using milk, and not hot water.
Quirky Hot Cocoa Recipes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Salted caramel hot chocolate turns this classic drink into a more delicious one. Caramel perfectly complements the sweetness of the drink by adding saltiness. Adding 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce can provide a unique taste.
White Hot Chocolate
Yes, it is prepared with white chocolate. It gives a sweet and creamy flavor. Many prefer garnishing their drink with marshmallows and whipped cream to make it more special.
Mexican Hot Chocolate
With a blend of spices, the simple mug of chocolate gets filled with a unique and flavorful taste. Traditionally, it is also made with dark chocolate, giving it a rich flavor. For this, you need cinnamon, cumin, chili powder, and vanilla extract.
Hazelnut Hot Chocolate
Hazelnut offers a rich and nutty taste. It is also garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, making your treat special.
Make hot chocolate without cocoa powder
Yes, it is possible to make hot chocolate without cocoa powder. You can use real chocolate instead of cocoa. The taste of hot chocolate without cocoa powder may differ. But this option is best if you don’t have cocoa and want a quick and easy drink.
Let’s see how to prepare a cup of hot chocolate with no cocoa powder.
You need: approx. 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate, 1 cup milk, 2 teaspoons sugar (powdered), salt, and vanilla extract (optional).
- Chop the chocolate into small pieces for quick melting.
- In a saucepan, heat your milk until it starts to beam but doesn’t boil.
- Add your chopped chocolate, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir until everything is melted and becomes smooth.
- Add vanilla extract after the drink gets a bit cool, if have any.
- Pour into a mug and enjoy it!
Conclusion
Hot cocoa remains a special winter beverage. Its recipe may look challenging. However, getting hot cocoa at home has become easier now. With the ingredients available at hand, you can make one whenever you want to. Regardless of age, you can master the art of creating a perfect hot cocoa recipe with this guide.
So, go and suit yourself with a mug of this timeless treat now.
Have you tried a creamy fruit tart yet? Here’s another recipe you might like to try out.
