Ingredients
4 cups whole milk (or full-fat oat milk for dairy-free)
1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Pinch of salt
4 oz good quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), chopped
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) or Irish cream (like Baileys), OR 2 shots (approx. 2 oz) strong espresso
Whipped cream, for serving
Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Mini marshmallows, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the milk to the dry ingredients, forming a thick, smooth paste.
Step 3: Slowly add the remaining 3 1/2 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until completely combined. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Step 4: Heat the mixture, stirring frequently, until it is steaming hot and small bubbles just begin to form around the edges of the pan. Do not allow it to boil.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla extract until the chocolate is completely melted and the hot chocolate is smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Stir in the coffee liqueur (or Irish cream/espresso). Taste and adjust the amount of liqueur or espresso to your preference for the perfect ‘dirty’ kick.
Step 7: Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs. Top generously with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and mini marshmallows (if using). Serve immediately.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can let the dry ingredients bloom in a small amount of hot milk for a minute before adding the rest of the milk. Adjust sugar levels based on your preference and the sweetness of your chosen liqueur. This recipe scales easily if you want to make a larger batch for a party!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (approx. 10oz)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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