This is the Best Single Serve Hot Cocoa Recipe!

Nothing beats enjoying a warm cup of hot chocolate on a chilling night, especially when the desire for something sweet arises. Making a homemade version is straightforward and allows you to manage the ingredients, resulting in a more indulgent, milder, and healthy iteration of this classic winter warmer.

In this post, I present a hot chocolate recipe that calls for only a handful of easy ingredients and takes under 10 minutes to prepare. Whether you fancy dark, milk, or white chocolate, this hot chocolate will delight your taste buds and warm your heart, perfect for any cold day or night.

If you’re into cozy drink recipes, be sure to check out my Creamy White Hot Chocolate Recipe, the Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha Recipe, or try my Hot & Iced Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha Latte!

What is Hot Chocolate?

Hot chocolate, often referred to as hot cocoa, is a warm drink crafted from cocoa powder or chocolate pieces, milk, sugar, and various flavorings. It’s a traditional beverage best enjoyed during the winter season, particularly on frosty evenings.

This delightful drink comes with numerous variations, including French hot chocolate, which is notably thicker and richer. Health-conscious consumers can also find mixes made with alternative milk and sweeteners. An ideal cup of hot chocolate strikes the balance of being rich and creamy while avoiding excessive sweetness or a watery texture.

Ingredients for this Single Serve Hot Chocolate Recipe

Don’t forget to check the recipe card at the end for precise ingredient quantities.

• Whole Milk: The creaminess from whole milk elevates the taste significantly. For extra richness, consider using half-and-half; if you want something lighter, nonfat milk is a good choice.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate delivers a bold flavor, while milk chocolate balances sweetness with rich cocoa. White chocolate chips add a unique taste and creaminess.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This ingredient enhances the chocolate flavor without thickening the drink too much.
• Sweetener: Choose your favorite option; brown sugar and granulated sugar are popular, but stevia or coconut sugar work well too. Honey or maple syrup can offer a distinctive flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla amplifies the chocolate’s natural flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch will help balance sweetness and bring out other flavors.
• Optional Toppings: Whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or even cinnamon sticks can transform your hot chocolate into a festive treat!

How to Prepare this Single Serve Hot Chocolate

Scroll down for complete step-by-step instructions and let’s create some warm cocoa magic!

1. In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk, cocoa powder, and sugar over medium-low heat until warm but not boiling.
2. Incorporate chocolate chips, the sweetener of your choice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, whisking continuously until smooth and fully melted.
3. Remove from the heat, pour into a mug, and add your favorite toppings.
4. Relish your homemade hot chocolate!

Why You Should Make This Hot Chocolate for One Recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: The recipe only uses a few items you may already have at home.
• Easy to Follow: Even novice cooks can master this straightforward recipe in under 10 minutes.
• Satisfy Your Chocolate Cravings: The rich and creamy concoction will hit the spot when you’re craving something sweet.
• Healthier Than Store-Bought Mixes: Homemade hot chocolate allows for quality ingredients without excess sugar or artificial additives.