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Parisian Hot Chocolate (Le Chocolat Chaud)

Rich, thick, and decadent French-style drinking chocolate made with real dark chocolate and heavy cream. A luxurious treat straight from a Parisian café.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 cups
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: European, French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Hot Chocolate Base
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tsp powdered sugar or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp espresso powder optional, to enhance chocolate flavor
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • 5 oz bittersweet chocolate at least 70% cocoa, chopped finely
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings
  • 0.5 cup whipped cream freshly whipped
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder for dusting

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Kitchen Knife (for chopping chocolate)
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place the chopped chocolate in a small heat-proof bowl and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, espresso powder (if using), and salt.
  3. Heat the mixture until small bubbles appear around the edges and it is steaming. Do not let it come to a rolling boil.
  4. Lower the heat to low and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 30 seconds to begin melting.
  5. Whisk constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Pour into cups immediately. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Notes

For an even thicker consistency, let the hot chocolate cool for 5 minutes, then gently reheat before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 days.