This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy. Hey, hey, Valentina with Valentina’s Corner sharing our favorite classic Hot Cocoa.

Hot Chocolate Recipe:

Just like homemade Apple Cider, This hot chocolate recipe is a favorite during the cooler months. This is the easiest recipe and takes just minutes on the stove. Enjoy your warm mug of hot cocoa, the ULTIMATE cozy drink that everyone will love! 

Ingredients for Hot Chocolate:

There are just 5 ingredients needed for a classic hot chocolate mix.

Cocoa powder – be sure it’s unsweetened Sugar – add granulated sugar to your desired sweetnessChocolate – melt in semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, chunks, or shavings for a rich chocolate flavorMilk – we use whole milk for a creamier consistency and it incorporates chocolate better than skim milk. Vanilla extract – use homemade vanilla for the best taste

For an extra rich and creamy hot cocoa: replace 1 cup of whole milk with a cup of half and half or heavy cream.

How to make Hot Chocolate:

Pro Tip: Cocoa and chocolate can settle at the bottom of the pot. Avoid burning your homemade hot cocoa by cooking it over medium heat and stir continuously.

Common Questions:

Hot Chocolate Toppings:

The BEST part about homemade hot chocolate is the toppings and added flavors! We love to make a toppings bar, especially for the holidays and parties.

Whipped creamMini marshmallowsMini chocolate chipsCrushed peppermintWhite chocolateChocolate syrupSprinklesPeppermint sticksChocolate shavings

Nothing beats homemade hot chocolate on a cold day, except maybe hot cocoa and a warm slice of Banana Bread… Mmm.

How to reheat hot cocoa:

Stovetop – Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warm, stirring frequently.Slow Cooker – When serving at a party, we love to keep hot cocoa warm in a slow cooker on the low heat setting.

What to serve with Hot Chocolate:

Sugar Cookies – our go-to Christmas cut-out cookiesChocolate Crinkle Cookies – with a soft, fudgy centerChocolate Chip Cookies – soft, bakery-style Oatmeal Cookies – oatmeal coconut cookies Chocolate Chip Bar – loaded with chocolate chips Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 60Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 52Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 61Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 53Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 74Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 6Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe - 32