Hot Chocolate

[The Cozy Cocoa Remix]

Rich, creamy hot chocolate made with real premium ingredients that warm you from the inside out with every luxurious sip. This is comfort in a mug that makes cold days magical, featuring deep chocolate flavor and velvety texture that rivals the finest European cafés.

remixology.com/recipe/hot-chocolate/

Makes

Serves 4

Total Time

15 min (5 min prep)

Ingredients

For Rich Hot Chocolate:
4 cups (960ml) unsweetened almond milk or whole milk
1/2 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
1/3 cup (70g) coconut sugar or raw cane sugar
4 oz (115g) dark chocolate (70% cacao), finely chopped
2 tsp (10ml) pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp (1g) ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp (1.5g) sea salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for warmth)

For Toppings:
Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream
Mini marshmallows or vegan marshmallows
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for dusting

Steps

Heat:

Pour almond milk into medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until steaming and small bubbles form around edges, but do not allow to boil.

Whisk:

Gradually whisk in sifted cocoa powder, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming and ensure completely smooth, uniform chocolate base.

Sweeten:

Add coconut sugar and finely chopped dark chocolate, whisking continuously until sugar dissolves completely and chocolate melts into silky, rich mixture.

Flavor:

Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, sea salt, and optional cayenne pepper, whisking to distribute flavors evenly throughout the hot chocolate.

Simmer:

Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent sticking and develop deep, rich chocolate flavor.

Taste:

Remove from heat and taste, adjusting sweetness with additional sugar or depth with more cocoa powder as desired for perfect personal preference.

Serve:

Pour into warmed mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings. Serve immediately while piping hot for ultimate comfort and satisfaction.

Make it Good For The Gut (Optional)

Add 1 tablespoon collagen peptides for protein and gut lining support that dissolves completely without affecting taste. Include 1 teaspoon coconut oil for healthy fats and medium-chain triglycerides that support digestive health. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon raw cacao for additional antioxidants and prebiotic properties. Consider adding 1/4 teaspoon fresh grated ginger for digestive support and warming properties. Use bone broth protein powder (chocolate flavored) for additional gut-healing nutrients and enhanced protein content.

Remix Options

Milk Alternatives: Use full-fat coconut milk for ultimate richness, cashew milk for creaminess, or oat milk for natural sweetness and body. Sweetener Options: Replace coconut sugar with pure maple syrup, raw honey, or stevia for different sweetness profiles and dietary needs. Flavor Variations: Add peppermint extract for minty freshness, orange zest for citrus notes, or espresso powder for mocha richness. Spice Blends: Try Mexican-style with chili powder and cinnamon, chai-inspired with cardamom and ginger, or lavender for floral sophistication. Protein Boost: Include nut butter, protein powder, or Greek yogurt for enhanced nutrition and sustained energy. International Styles: Italian bicerin with espresso, French chocolat chaud with cream, or Spanish chocolate con churros thickness. Healthy Upgrades: Add maca powder for energy, ashwagandha for stress relief, or turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits.

Good To Know

Chocolate Quality: Dark chocolate with 70% cacao provides rich flavor and antioxidants while coconut sugar adds molasses notes that enhance chocolate complexity. Cocoa Powder Tip: Sift cocoa powder to eliminate lumps and ensure smooth, velvety texture throughout the hot chocolate base. Temperature Control: Heat milk gently to steaming (not boiling) to prevent scorching and maintain smooth consistency without curdling. Whisking Technique: Constant whisking while adding dry ingredients prevents lumps and creates perfectly smooth, restaurant-quality hot chocolate. Spice Integration: Cinnamon and cayenne add warmth and depth while salt enhances chocolate flavor perception and balances sweetness. Chocolate Melting: Finely chopped chocolate melts faster and more evenly, creating silky texture without grainy residue. Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare base up to 2 days ahead and gently reheat, whisking to restore smooth consistency. Serving Tips: Warm mugs in low oven beforehand to maintain temperature longer and enhance the cozy experience. Storage Guidelines: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days and reheat gently while whisking to prevent separation and maintain creamy texture.