Spiced Hot Chocolate Blend (Printable version)

A rich, spiced chocolate drink blending warmth and velvety smoothness for cozy enjoyment.

# What you need:

→ Dairy

01 - 2 cups whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)

→ Chocolate

03 - 3 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
04 - 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

→ Sweetener

05 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

→ Spices

06 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
08 - 1/8 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)
09 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
10 - Pinch of salt

→ Garnish (optional)

11 - Whipped cream
12 - Chocolate shavings
13 - Cinnamon stick

# How To:

01 - Combine milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Warm gently over medium heat until steaming, avoiding boiling.
02 - Whisk in the chopped dark chocolate and cocoa powder until fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
03 - Add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper if using, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk continuously until mixture is hot and ingredients are well blended.
04 - Taste and modify sweetness or spice level as preferred.
05 - Pour into mugs and garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a cinnamon stick if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes barely fifteen minutes but tastes like youve been simmering it for hours.
  • The spices add complexity without overpowering the chocolate, making every sip feel special.
  • You can dial the sweetness and heat up or down to match your mood perfectly.
02 -
  • Dont let the milk boil or itll scorch the bottom of the pan and give the chocolate a burnt edge.
  • Whisk constantly once the chocolate goes in, or it clumps instead of melting smoothly.
  • The cayenne builds as it sits, so start with less if youre unsure about heat.
03 -
  • Use a good quality dark chocolate because its the star here, and you can taste the difference.
  • If you want it sweeter without adding more sugar, try a splash of maple syrup or honey.
  • A cinnamon stick stirred in while heating infuses more flavor than ground cinnamon alone.

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