Dark Hot Cocoa Recipe

Introduction

This Dark Hot Cocoa recipe is a rich and indulgent twist on classic hot chocolate, featuring the deep flavor of black cocoa powder and dark chocolate. Perfect for cozy evenings, it’s topped with a fun sprinkle rim for a festive touch.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces (57 grams) dark chocolate (chips or chopped)
• Sprinkles
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (38 grams) black cocoa powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) water
• 2 1/2-3 cups (590-710 milliliters) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the sprinkle rim by placing the dark chocolate in a shallow, wide bowl. Heat it in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring between each until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
2. Step 2: Pour the sprinkles into another shallow, wide bowl or rimmed plate. Dip the top of each heat-safe glass into the melted chocolate, then immediately coat it with sprinkles. Set the glasses aside.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, black cocoa powder, salt, and water until combined.
4. Step 4: Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer. Whisk often to dissolve all the cocoa powder smoothly.
5. Step 5: Slowly whisk in the milk and continue heating until the hot cocoa is warmed through, but not boiling.
6. Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
7. Step 7: Pour the hot cocoa into the prepared sprinkle-rimmed glasses and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole milk or a milk alternative like oat or almond milk to adjust richness and dietary needs.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for festive flavor variations.
• If you can’t find black cocoa powder, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder as a substitute for a slightly lighter flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. The sprinkle rims are best applied fresh before serving to maintain their texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this hot cocoa vegan?

Yes, substitute the milk with any plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk, and ensure the dark chocolate used is dairy-free.

What is black cocoa powder?

Black cocoa powder is a very dark, Dutch-processed cocoa known for its intense color and deep, slightly bitter flavor, perfect for rich chocolate recipes like this hot cocoa.

Dark Hot Cocoa Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 66 reviews

• Author: Aiden
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Dark Hot Cocoa recipe offers a rich, indulgent chocolate experience made with black cocoa powder and dark chocolate. Finished with a fun sprinkle-rimmed glass, it’s a perfect cozy treat for cold days that balances deep chocolate flavors with creamy milk and a touch of vanilla.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sprinkle Rim

• 2 ounces (57 grams) dark chocolate (chips or chopped)
• Sprinkles (for coating the glass rim)

Dark Hot Cocoa

• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (38 grams) black cocoa powder
• Pinch salt
• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) water
• 2 1/2–3 cups (590–710 milliliters) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sprinkle Rim: Place the dark chocolate in a shallow, wide bowl and heat it in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring between each increment until it is fully melted and smooth.
2. Coat the Glasses: Pour the sprinkles into another shallow, wide bowl or a rimmed plate. Dip the top edge of each heat-safe glass into the melted dark chocolate, then immediately coat the rim with sprinkles. Set aside to let the chocolate set while you prepare the hot cocoa.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, black cocoa powder, pinch of salt, and water until well combined.
4. Simmer Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking frequently until all the cocoa powder has completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
5. Add Milk and Heat: Slowly whisk in the milk (between 2 1/2 and 3 cups depending on desired richness) and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring regularly, until the hot cocoa is heated through but not boiling.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the vanilla extract. Immediately pour the hot cocoa into the sprinkle-rimmed glasses and serve warm.

Notes

• Use heat-safe glasses to prevent cracking when pouring hot liquid.
• Adjust the amount of milk for a creamier or lighter hot cocoa.
• Microwave heating times may vary; stir chocolate carefully to prevent burning.
• Black cocoa powder has an intense chocolate flavor and is darker than regular cocoa powder.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Dark Hot Cocoa, Hot Chocolate, Black Cocoa Powder, Winter Drink, Chocolate Drink, Cozy Beverage