Easy French Hot Chocolate

topping french hot chocolate with marshmallows.

5 from 7 votes

Rich, velvety, and deeply chocolatey, this classic French hot chocolate is so good and so comforting - perfect for chilly mornings or cosy evenings.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: French

Servings: servings

Ingredients

500 ml whole milk
200 g chocolate chopped (I like 54% dark)
100 ml double (heavy) cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cinnamon stick
1 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tsp caster (superfine) sugar or granulated sugar
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Pour the milk into a saucepan and add the cinnamon stick (and vanilla if using). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then remove from the heat. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.
Remove the cinnamon stick, then whisk in the cocoa powder, chopped chocolate, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Return the pan to a low heat and whisk continuously until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This will take 5-10 minutes.
Stir in the double cream and continue to heat gently for another minute, taking care not to let it boil.
Pour into mugs and serve immediately - thick, rich, and perfectly luxurious. For an extra touch, top with softly whipped cream, marshmallows or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. My easy homemade marshmallows would be incredible here!
The video below will help with this recipe.

Video

Notes

Scroll up for a step by step guide on how to make this French hot chocolate.

To store: I wouldn't recommend making ahead of time but if needed, store in an airtight container in the fridge for 1 day.

To reheat: reheat in a pan on medium heat until it comes back together and is thickened.

Cream: cream is obviously very indulgent in a hot chocolate but it gives it a lovely thickness. If you like, you can omit the cream.

Make it plant-based/dairy-free: Swap the milk for your favourite plant based milk and cream. Then make sure to use a vegan chocolate. Most dark chocolates are vegan/dairy free!

Cinnamon stick: if you don't have this, swap for 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon. Skip step 1 of the recipe. Heat the milk gently, then whisk in the ground cinnamon and the other ingredients in step 2.

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