Decadent Gourmet Hot Chocolate
Indulge in this luxurious hot chocolate inspired by the Barefoot Contessa herself! Made with rich, high-quality Valrhona or Callebaut chocolate, this creamy beverage promises to be the ultimate treat on a chilly day. The blend of whole milk and half-and-half creates a velvety base, while bittersweet and milk chocolates add depth and sweetness. Enhanced with a touch of sugar, pure vanilla extract, and a hint of espresso, each sip is a cozy hug in a mug. Garnished with aromatic vanilla beans or warming cinnamon sticks, this hot chocolate is perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. Treat your taste buds and elevate your beverage game with this delightful gourmet drink!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Milk
2 1/2 cups (none)
Half-and-Half
2 cups (none)
Bittersweet Chocolate
4 ounces (chopped)
Milk Chocolate
4 ounces (chopped)
Sugar
1 tablespoon (none)
Pure Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon (none)
Instant Espresso
1 teaspoon (or coffee powder)
Vanilla Beans
4-5 (or cinnamon sticks for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk and half-and-half over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot but not boiling.
2
Once the milk mixture is steaming, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped bittersweet and milk chocolates.
3
Stir gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
4
Add in the sugar, pure vanilla extract, and instant espresso, whisking vigorously to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5
Return the saucepan to low heat, gently reheating the mixture without boiling it.
6
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and garnish with vanilla beans or cinnamon sticks before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this hot chocolate gourmet?
This recipe uses high-quality chocolates like Valrhona or Callebaut and a mix of whole milk and half-and-half for a luxurious texture.
What types of chocolate should I use?
The recipe calls for a combination of 4 ounces of bittersweet chocolate and 4 ounces of milk chocolate.
Can I use any brand of chocolate?
While any chocolate works, high-quality brands like Valrhona or Callebaut are recommended for the best flavor profile.
How much milk is needed for this recipe?
You will need 2 1/2 cups of whole milk.
Why is half-and-half used in the recipe?
Half-and-half adds extra creaminess and a velvety mouthfeel to the hot chocolate base.
How much half-and-half is required?
The recipe requires 2 cups of half-and-half.
Should I boil the milk and half-and-half?
No, you should heat the mixture until it is hot and steaming, but do not let it reach a boil as it may scald.
Do I need to chop the chocolate?
Yes, chopping the bittersweet and milk chocolate ensures they melt quickly and evenly into the hot milk.
When should I add the chocolate to the milk?
Remove the saucepan from the heat once the milk is steaming, then add the chopped chocolate pieces.
How much sugar is added to this drink?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the chocolate.
What is the purpose of adding instant espresso?
Instant espresso or coffee powder is used to deepen the chocolate flavor without making the drink taste like coffee.
Can I substitute instant espresso with coffee powder?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of coffee powder can be used as a substitute for the instant espresso.
What kind of vanilla is best for this recipe?
Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the most authentic and rich gourmet flavor.
How much vanilla extract should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
How do I ensure the mixture is smooth?
Whisk the ingredients vigorously after adding the sugar, vanilla, and espresso to combine them evenly.
What is the total amount of chocolate used?
The recipe uses a total of 8 ounces of solid chocolate (4 ounces bittersweet and 4 ounces milk chocolate).
Can I reheat the hot chocolate if it cools down?
Yes, you can return the saucepan to low heat to gently reheat the mixture without letting it boil.
What are the suggested garnishes?
You can garnish the mugs with vanilla beans or cinnamon sticks for an aromatic and beautiful finish.
How many vanilla beans are needed for garnish?
The recipe suggests using 4 to 5 vanilla beans if choosing them as a garnish for your mugs.
Is this recipe inspired by anyone famous?
Yes, this decadent recipe is inspired by the Barefoot Contessa.
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?
You can use skim milk, but the final drink will be significantly less rich and creamy than the original gourmet version.
How long does it take to melt the chocolate?
The chopped chocolate should melt within a minute or two of stirring it into the hot milk mixture off the heat.
Is this recipe suitable for a cold day?
Absolutely, it is designed to be the ultimate cozy treat for chilly weather or winter holidays.
Can I use cinnamon sticks instead of vanilla beans?
Yes, cinnamon sticks are a great alternative garnish that adds a warming aroma to the drink.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the liquid volume of 4.5 cups, this recipe makes approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Can I add whipped cream on top?
Yes, while not in the base recipe, whipped cream is a delicious and common addition to this decadent drink.
What is the best way to stir the chocolate?
Stir gently at first to melt the chocolate, then whisk vigorously once the final ingredients are added.
Does this hot chocolate contain caffeine?
Yes, it contains a small amount of caffeine from the real chocolate and the teaspoon of instant espresso.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container and reheated gently on the stove later.
Is this a good recipe for entertaining?
Yes, its gourmet ingredients and elegant garnishes make it perfect for serving guests at a gathering.