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Decadent Italian Hot Chocolate Recipe (Thick & Creamy)

Decadent Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda)

A thick, creamy Italian hot chocolate made with chopped dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and cornstarch. This rich recipe makes two modest servings and is ready in about 10–15 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Hot Chocolate
  • 2 cups (480 ml) Whole milk
  • 4 oz (113 g) Dark or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped, 60–70% cacao
  • 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons, or to taste Granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch or cornflour
  • 1 small pinch, optional Fine salt
For Serving
  • As needed optional Lightly sweetened whipped cream or chocolate shavings

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Whisk the cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, optional salt, and about 1/2 cup of the cold milk in a saucepan until completely smooth.
  2. Whisk in the remaining milk and place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook for 3–5 minutes, whisking frequently, until the milk mixture is hot and begins to thicken without reaching a vigorous boil.
  3. Add the finely chopped chocolate and continue whisking for 1–2 minutes, until every piece melts and the hot chocolate becomes glossy and very thick.
  4. Pour immediately into two small cups. Finish with lightly sweetened whipped cream or chocolate shavings, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Finely chop the chocolate so it melts quickly and smoothly. Keep the heat at medium-low and avoid vigorous boiling, which can cause lumps or a starchy taste. For a thicker result, simmer briefly after the chocolate melts; for a thinner drinking consistency, whisk in a little additional warm milk.