Print

Authentic French Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud): Rich, Velvety & Decadent Sipping Chocolate

Close-up of rich, dark french hot chocolate with a layer of small, dark foam bubbles in a white mug.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

You can make a truly luxurious, Parisian-style hot chocolate at home. This recipe focuses on using high-quality dark chocolate melted into a rich base of milk and cream to create a thick, velvety sipping chocolate, unlike standard cocoa powder drinks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 4 ounces (about 115g) High-Quality Dark Chocolate (70% cacao recommended), finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • Pinch of Salt

Instructions

  1. Place the finely chopped dark chocolate into a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  2. Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into the saucepan with the chocolate.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat. You must keep the heat low to prevent scorching the milk and seizing the chocolate.
  4. Stir the mixture constantly with a whisk as it heats. Do not let it boil.
  5. Continue whisking slowly and steadily until the chocolate is completely melted and incorporated into the milk and cream mixture. This slow process helps create the signature velvety texture.
  6. Once the chocolate is fully melted, add the sugar and the pinch of salt. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely, about 1 minute.
  7. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. Pour the rich French hot chocolate into mugs immediately. Serve this decadent hot chocolate while it is steaming hot.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use chocolate bars rather than chips, as chips often contain stabilizers that affect texture.
  • If you prefer a slightly thinner consistency, reduce the heavy cream by 1/4 cup and replace it with more whole milk.
  • This recipe makes a thick drinking chocolate. If you want an even thicker texture, simmer the mixture gently for 2-3 minutes after the chocolate is melted, whisking constantly.
  • Top your luxurious winter drink with fresh whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra treat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/french-hot-chocolate-recipe-velvety-sipping/