Classic Hot Chocolate With Whipped Cream Peaks

Classic hot chocolate isn’t just a drink. It’s a hug in a mug!

I heat 2 cups of milk until steamy, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 4-6 tablespoons of powdered sugar and a pinch of salt.

The magic happens with the whipped cream. I chill my bowl first, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and crown my drink with this cloud-like topping.

A sprinkle of chocolate shavings makes it Instagram-worthy.

Stick around for secret variations that’ll transform your chocolate game!

Contents show

Ingredients

Indulging in a luxurious French hot chocolate experience involves using high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor.

Recommended Tools

Preparing the perfect hot chocolate is so much easier when you have the right tools on hand. From heating the milk just right to creating those beautiful whipped cream peaks, these kitchen essentials will help you craft a delicious hot chocolate experience with minimal fuss.

Saucepan:
A medium-sized saucepan gives you plenty of room to heat milk and whisk in the cocoa powder without spills.
Whisk:
Essential for thoroughly blending cocoa powder and sugar into hot milk and preventing lumps in your hot chocolate.
Stand or Hand Mixer:
Makes quick work of whipping cream to those perfect stiff peaks without tiring your arm out.
Chilled Mixing Bowl:
A cold metal bowl helps whipping cream form stiff peaks faster and more reliably.
Measuring Spoons:
Ensures you get the perfect balance of cocoa powder and sugar for that classic hot chocolate taste.
Mugs:
The right mugs not only hold your delicious creation but make for a cozy presentation of your hot chocolate with whipped cream on top.

For an added touch, consider pairing your hot chocolate with Delicious Vegan Overnight Oats for a wholesome breakfast option that complements your cozy drink.</p

Instructions

Let’s whip up this cozy classic hot chocolate that’ll warm you from the inside out!

Start by heating 2 cups of milk in a saucepan. Keep a watchful eye on it—you want it hot but not boiling! Boiling milk can make your cocoa taste bitter, and nobody wants that disappointment.

While the milk is warming, grab your whisk and get ready for some action. Once the milk is hot, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 4-6 tablespoons of powdered sugar (depending on how sweet your tooth is feeling today!), and a tiny pinch of salt. Whisk like you mean it until everything is silky smooth!

Now for the crowning glory—the whipped cream! Pop your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 10 minutes first. Trust me, this little hack makes whipping cream SO much easier!

Pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into your chilled bowl, add 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract if you’re feeling fancy. Whip until those gorgeous stiff peaks form—you’ll know it’s ready when the cream holds its shape when you lift the whisk.

Pour your velvety hot chocolate into your favorite mugs (the bigger, the better!) and dollop those beautiful clouds of whipped cream on top. For an extra-special touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the whipped cream.

If you’re in the mood for a quick sweet treat, consider making a chocolate mug cake to enjoy alongside your hot chocolate.

Grab a blanket, find a cozy spot, and enjoy every decadent sip of your homemade hot chocolate masterpiece!

Pro Tips

For perfectly smooth whipped cream that holds its shape atop hot chocolate, place your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream with sugar and vanilla.

This quick chilling step helps the cream whip faster and creates more stable peaks that won’t immediately melt when placed on the hot beverage. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of Creamy Eggnog to your hot chocolate for a festive twist.

Substitutions & Variations

While classic hot chocolate has timeless appeal, adjusting ingredients can transform this comforting beverage into something extraordinary without losing its soul-warming qualities.

Dark Chocolate Upgrade: Replace cocoa powder with 4 ounces of chopped dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) for a richer more decadent drink.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond, oat or coconut milk for regular milk and coconut cream for heavy whipping cream to create a vegan-friendly version.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, a pinch of cayenne pepper and a dash of nutmeg to the cocoa mixture for a Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Peppermint Twist: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the hot chocolate and garnish with crushed candy canes instead of chocolate shavings.
Mocha Variation: Add 1 shot of espresso or 1 tablespoon of instant coffee to the milk mixture for a caffeinated boost.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce into the mug before pouring hot chocolate and top with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Candy Cane Fudge Addition: For an extra festive touch, consider serving your hot chocolate alongside Candy Cane Chocolate Fudge, which adds a delightful holiday flavor to your treat.

Leftovers & Storage Tips

Despite making the perfect batch of hot chocolate, you might find yourself with more than you can drink in one sitting.

Don’t toss it! Store your leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Just reheat it gently on the stove and whip up fresh cream. The flavor might even deepen overnight!

With Marshmallows Instead