Authentic Spanish Hot Chocolate Recipe
This Authentic Spanish Hot Chocolate recipe delivers a rich, thick, and intensely chocolatey beverage that’s perfect for cozy moments. Made with dark chocolate, whole milk, and a touch of cornstarch to achieve the signature velvety texture, this decadent drink can be tailored with a hint of cayenne pepper for a warming spice or sweetened to your preference. Traditionally enjoyed alongside churros, this comforting treat is ready in just 15 minutes and serves two.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 ounces dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 2/3 teaspoon cornstarch
Optional Additions
- 2 teaspoons white sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Chop the Chocolate: Coarsely chop the dark chocolate into half-squares to ensure it melts evenly and quickly during cooking.
- Dissolve Cornstarch in Milk: Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and whisk in the cornstarch until completely dissolved to prevent lumps and to help thicken the hot chocolate.
- Add Sugar (Optional): If you prefer a sweeter drink, whisk in the white sugar until fully dissolved. Adjust quantity according to your taste preference.
- Heat the Milk Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, and bring the milk to a gentle boil. Remove from heat once boiling to avoid scorching.
- Melt the Chocolate: Add the chopped chocolate to the hot milk and stir until completely melted and smooth. If the mixture cools prematurely and thickens too much, return to heat briefly but avoid overheating to maintain the creamy texture.
- Add Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For a subtle spicy kick, whisk in the cayenne pepper thoroughly to combine.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the hot chocolate and adjust sweetness or spice levels if necessary to suit your palate.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the hot chocolate into cups and serve right away, ideally accompanied by churros for an authentic Spanish experience.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best rich and intense flavor.
- The cornstarch is key for achieving the traditional thick consistency of Spanish hot chocolate.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, though texture may vary.
- Cayenne pepper adds warmth but start with less if sensitive to spice.
- This recipe is best enjoyed fresh and hot, as reheating may thin the texture.
Keywords: Spanish hot chocolate, thick hot chocolate, authentic hot chocolate recipe, dark chocolate drink, spicy hot chocolate, comforting chocolate beverage