Name: Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups whole milk (divided); ¼ cup heavy whipping cream; 1 shot espresso (about 1 ounce); 4 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch; 4 ounces dark chocolate (finely chopped)

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Introduction

Italian hot chocolate is a rich and indulgent treat that feels like a warm hug in a cup. This thick, velvety drink combines dark chocolate and espresso for a luxurious flavor experience perfect for chilly days or special moments.

A white cup with a black handle and rim is filled with thick, smooth dark brown hot chocolate, topped by a dollop of white whipped cream in the center that has a soft, airy texture. On top of the whipped cream are thin, small chocolate shavings scattered evenly. The cup sits on a white round coaster on a white marbled surface, around which are small chocolate flakes and two small dried pink rosebuds. In the background, a white cup filled with whipped cream and a white dish with more rosebuds are softly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups whole milk (divided)
¼ cup heavy whipping cream

1 shot espresso (about 1 ounce)
4 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
4 ounces dark chocolate (finely chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of milk, heavy cream, chopped dark chocolate, and sugar. Stir occasionally until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set aside the remaining ¼ cup of milk for the next step.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk the reserved ¼ cup of milk with the cornstarch until fully dissolved, creating a smooth slurry.
Step 3: Once the chocolate mixture begins to bubble around the edges, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry and espresso while whisking continuously. Continue whisking for about 1 minute until the mixture thickens and becomes silky.

Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately. For an extra indulgence, top with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deeper, richer flavor.
For a sweeter drink, add an extra tablespoon of sugar or a splash of vanilla extract.

Swap espresso for strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine.
To make it dairy-free, substitute whole milk and cream with almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cream alternative.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, whisking to restore the smooth texture. Avoid microwaving as it may cause separation.

How to Serve

A white cup with a black handle and rim is filled to the top with thick, smooth, dark brown hot chocolate. A golden spoon is held above the cup by a woman's hand, dripping the rich hot chocolate back into the cup. The cup sits on a white coaster placed on a white marbled surface. Around the cup are two small dried pink flower buds. In the background, there is a blurred white cup filled with whipped cream and a partially visible white plate with nuts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Italian hot chocolate without espresso?

Yes, you can substitute the espresso with strong brewed coffee or omit it entirely for a pure chocolate taste. The espresso adds depth but is not essential.

Why is cornstarch used in this recipe?

Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the hot chocolate its signature rich and velvety texture, similar to a dessert rather than a regular drink.