FRENCH HOT CHOCOLATE
French hot chocolate, or “chocolat chaud,” is a rich and creamy drink that’s pure indulgence in a cup. Unlike regular hot cocoa, it’s made with real melted chocolate, giving it a luxuriously thick and velvety texture. It’s perfect for cozy mornings, chilly afternoons, or whenever you need a little extra comfort. Enjoy it topped with whipped cream or served alongside a flaky croissant for a truly Parisian treat!
WHAT IS FRENCH HOT CHOCOLATE?
French hot chocolate, or “chocolat chaud,” is a decadent, thick, and velvety beverage made by melting high-quality dark chocolate into warm milk or cream. Unlike typical hot cocoa, it’s intensely rich and has a luxurious texture, often resembling a drinkable dessert. It’s a staple in French cafés and a favorite treat for cozying up during colder months.
When I visited Angelina Café in Paris, I had no idea I was about to experience the most unforgettable cup of hot chocolate in my life. As soon as I walked in, the elegant Belle Époque decor took me to another era—gold accents, soft lighting, and the hum of quiet conversations created a magical atmosphere.
But it was the “Chocolat Chaud L’Africain” that truly stole my heart. When the server placed the cup in front of me, it came with its own little pitcher of hot chocolate and a bowl of whipped cream. I poured it into my cup, and the rich, velvety chocolate flowed like pure liquid gold. The first sip was heavenly—smooth, thick, and perfectly balanced between bittersweet and creamy. It wasn’t just a drink; it was an experience.
As I sat there, savoring each warm, luxurious sip, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in the heart of Parisian indulgence. That one cup of hot chocolate made me fall in love—not just with Angelina but with the art of French chocolat chaud itself. It’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.
INGREDIENTS YOU NEED
- Dark Chocolate
- Heavy Cream
- Whole milk
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Espresso ( optional )
- Whipped Cream
TIPS FOR THE BEST HIGH QUALITY HOT CHOCOLATE
1. Choose High-Quality Chocolate
- Use real chocolate (dark or semi-sweet) with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich and velvety flavor. Avoid chocolate chips as they often contain stabilizers.
2. Use Whole Milk
- Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can mix it with heavy cream for extra indulgence or opt for non-dairy milk like oat milk for a rich alternative.
4. Melt Slowly
- Heat the milk gently and stir constantly when adding chocolate to ensure it melts evenly without scorching.
5. Sweeten to Taste
- Use sugar, honey, or maple syrup sparingly to let the chocolate’s natural flavor shine.
6. Add Flavor Enhancements
- Enhance the taste with vanilla extract, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dash of espresso for depth. For a festive twist, try peppermint or orange zest.
HOW TO THICKEN YOUR HOT CHOCOLATE
If you want to make your hot chocolate thicker and creamier, here are some simple methods to try:
1. Use Heavy Cream
- Replace part of the milk with heavy cream for a richer and thicker consistency.
2. Add Cornstarch
- Mix 1–2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little cold milk or water to create a slurry. Stir it into the hot chocolate while heating, and cook for a few minutes until it thickens.
3. Incorporate Melted Chocolate
- Instead of cocoa powder, use chopped high-quality chocolate. It melts into the milk and creates a naturally thick, luscious texture.
4. Simmer Longer
- Cook the hot chocolate over low heat for a few extra minutes to let it naturally reduce and thicken.
If you’ve given this recipe a try and it won you over, please share your thoughts by leaving a rating and comment below! If you have any questions about this recipe, don’t hesitate to ask – I’m here to help and will respond promptly.
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FRENCH HOT CHOCOLATE
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 250 g high quality dark chocolate
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 espresso shot optional
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- In a pan over medium heat, add in the heavy cream, milk, espresso , sugar and chocolate. Let it cook until it starts to bubble.
- Add in the cornstarch and mix and let it thicken on low heat.
- Serve while warm and top with some extra whipping cream for this french flavor!