Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe | 12 Days of Christmas Desserts Day 1

Kicking off the 12 Days of Christmas Desserts with my favorite winter beverage: Homemade Hot Chocolate with real chocolate in it!

When I think of winter, one of the first things that comes to mind is sipping on a mug of hot chocolate. Growing up, my mom would make the most amazing hot chocolate from scratch, and it’s a recipe that has stuck with me over the years. There’s something magical about the combination of milk, real cocoa, and melted chocolate that turns a simple drink into a warm hug in a cup. This recipe is my little way of bringing that childhood joy to your home this holiday season.

And the beauty of it all? It’s SO easy to make, you won’t believe you never tried making it at home already!

Where I live, the hot chocolate options are usually disappointing—essentially warmed-up store-bought chocolate milk. For someone who grew up spoiled with homemade hot chocolate, this just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I’ve recreated my mom’s recipe with a few tweaks of my own. It’s rich, indulgent, and guaranteed to make you feel like a kid again, no matter your age.

Not only is this hot chocolate the ultimate comfort drink, but it’s also a surefire way to impress anyone you serve it to. Greet your friends or family with a steaming cup topped with marshmallows or whipped cream, and you’ll be the star of the evening. Trust me, everyone will love you for it! 

Day 1 of our 12 Days of Christmas Desserts is off to a deliciously warm and festive start. Cheers to the season of comfort and joy!

What makes this hot chocolate so great?

This hot chocolate isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. Every sip brings a wave of rich, velvety chocolate goodness that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The combination of real dark chocolate, creamy milk, and just the right amount of sweetness creates a beverage that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. And let’s not forget the toppings—marshmallows, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon elevate it to the next level.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• It tastes like pure, real chocolate: None of that artificial flavor found in store-bought mixes!
• Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this hot chocolate is as effortless as it is delicious.
• Luxurious flavor: With its decadent, café-style taste, it feels like a treat you’d savor at a high-end ski lodge.
• Perfect for the holidays: It’s a little piece of festive magic in a mug, guaranteed to add warmth and cheer to your celebrations.

Ingredients

Milk – Use whole milk for richness or half-fat for a lighter version.

Cocoa powder – The heart and soul of any good hot chocolate.

Sugar – Adjust to taste, or swap for stevia for a lower-calorie option.

Dark chocolate -The not-so-secret ingredient that takes this drink to the next level.

Toppings – Get creative! Marshmallows, whipped cream, or even chocolate sprinkles add a festive touch.

Tips for recipe success

• Adjust the sweetness! This recipe leans sweet. If you prefer it less sweet, start with half the sugar, taste, and adjust as needed.
• Customize the thickness. For a less thick version, use half the amount of dark chocolate.
• Experiment with flavors: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drop of peppermint extract for a seasonal twist.

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Course: DessertCuisine: GlobalDifficulty: Very Easy

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

200

kcal

Warm up your holidays with this rich and creamy homemade hot chocolate recipe made with real cocoa and dark chocolate. Perfect for cozy nights, festive gatherings, or impressing your loved ones, it’s a quick and easy treat that’s ready in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients

• 500 ml milk (whole or half-and-half, both work well)

• 25g or 3 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)

• 40g or 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• 25g dark chocolate, chopped

• Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles

Directions

• In a saucepan, combine the cocoa powder and sugar and mix.
• Slowly pour in the milk, whisking to dissolve the dry ingredients. Heat gently over medium-low heat until the mixture begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
• Add the chopped dark chocolate and whisk continuously until it melts completely and the hot chocolate is silky smooth.
• At this point, you can taste the hot chocolate to adjust to your desired sweetness. Keep whisking until the hot chocolate reaches your preferred consistency. (For European-style thickness, let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.)
• Pour the hot chocolate into small cups or mugs. Top with your choice of whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
• Enjoy!!