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Authentic Parisian French Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud)

Close-up of a rich, dark french hot chocolate with a foamy top in a white mug.
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Make a rich, velvety French hot chocolate that tastes like a luxurious Parisian café treat. This recipe uses real dark chocolate for a decadent, thick sipping chocolate.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine the whole milk and heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Warm the dairy until small bubbles form around the edges; do not let it boil.
  2. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the finely chopped dark chocolate to the warm dairy mixture.
  3. Let the chocolate sit in the warm liquid for one minute to soften.
  4. Whisk the mixture gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the liquid is smooth and uniform.
  5. Return the saucepan to low heat. Whisk in the sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Heat for another minute, whisking constantly, until the hot chocolate is steaming hot and slightly thickened. Do not boil.
  6. Pour the rich French hot chocolate into your favorite mug. Serve immediately for a decadent winter warmer.

Notes

  • For an extra luxurious texture, use a ratio of 1 part cream to 2 parts whole milk.
  • If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the sugar slightly, but remember the dark chocolate provides much of the flavor.
  • This recipe creates a thick, sipping chocolate consistency; if you prefer it thinner, add a splash more warm milk.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/french-hot-chocolate-recipe-chocolat-chaud/