Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolato Caldo) Recipe

Introduction

Italian Hot Chocolate, or Cioccolato Caldo, is a rich and velvety treat perfect for chilly days. This decadent drink is thick, intensely chocolatey, and extremely comforting, making it an indulgent cozy delight for any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Ingredients

• 6 ounces dark chocolate (70-74%), finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• Pinch of kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 cups 2% milk
• Chocolate shavings and/or whipped cream (optional), for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, and a small pinch of salt. In another small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of the milk until smooth.
2. Step 2: Heat the remaining 1 3/4 cups milk in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer, with bubbles forming around the edges.
3. Step 3: Add the chocolate mixture into the simmering milk. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, about 4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Whisk in the milk and cornstarch mixture. Continue stirring until the hot chocolate thickens, about 1 minute.
5. Step 5: Remove the pan from heat and let the hot chocolate cool for 5 minutes. Whisk occasionally if a skin starts to form on the surface.
6. Step 6: Pour the hot chocolate into heat-proof cups or mugs. Garnish with chocolate shavings and/or whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute 2% milk with almond or oat milk, but keep in mind the thickness may vary.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract for a subtle twist on the classic flavor.
• To make it extra indulgent, top with homemade whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon.

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, stirring regularly to maintain smoothness. It may thicken upon cooling, so add a splash of milk while reheating if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but dark chocolate is recommended for a richer, less sweet flavor. Milk chocolate will make the hot chocolate sweeter and less intense.

Why is cornstarch used in this recipe?

Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, giving the Italian hot chocolate its signature creamy, pudding-like texture that sets it apart from regular hot cocoa.

Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolato Caldo) Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 92 reviews

This rich and creamy Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolato Caldo) recipe delivers an indulgent, thick, and velvety drink made with high-quality dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and milk. Perfectly smooth and intensely chocolatey, this classic Italian beverage is ideal for warming up on a chilly day and can be garnished with chocolate shavings or whipped cream for an extra special treat.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Mixture

• 6 ounces dark chocolate (70-74%), finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• Pinch of kosher salt

Cornstarch Slurry

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup 2% milk

Main

• 2 cups 2% milk (divided)
• Chocolate shavings and/or whipped cream (optional), for garnish

Instructions

1. Get ready: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped dark chocolate, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a small pinch of kosher salt. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of the 2% milk until smooth, creating a slurry.
2. Melt the chocolate: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, bring the remaining 1 3/4 cups of 2% milk to a gentle simmer, watching closely for bubbles forming around the edges. Add the chocolate mixture into the simmering milk and stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-proof spatula until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth, about 4 minutes.
3. Add the slurry: Gradually whisk in the cornstarch and milk slurry into the chocolate mixture. Continue stirring constantly over medium-low heat until the mixture thickens noticeably, about 1 minute. The drink should be rich and velvety.
4. Let cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the hot chocolate rest for 5 minutes. If a skin forms on the surface, whisk it back in gently to keep the texture smooth.
5. Serve: Pour the thick Italian hot chocolate into heat-proof cups or mugs. Garnish with chocolate shavings and/or whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the decadence.

Notes

• Use good-quality dark chocolate with 70-74% cocoa for the best flavor and texture.
• Keep stirring during cooking to prevent the chocolate from burning or the milk from scorching.
• If the hot chocolate becomes too thick, you can thin it with a splash of warm milk before serving.
• This recipe serves 2 small mugs or 1 large mug.
• For a richer drink, substitute whole milk instead of 2% milk.
• To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, but results may vary in thickness.

Keywords: Italian Hot Chocolate, Cioccolato Caldo, thick hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, dark chocolate drink, winter beverage