Q1: How long does Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate keep in the fridge?

A1: Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat while whisking; add a splash of milk if it’s too thick after chilling.

Q2: Can I make Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate without cornstarch?

A2: Yes — you can omit cornstarch, but the drink will be thinner, more like classic hot cocoa. For thickness without cornstarch, reduce the milk slightly and add a small knob of butter or a spoonful of cream, or simmer longer to concentrate it, though this changes the character a bit.

Q3: Is Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate suitable for kids?

A3: Absolutely. Use a chocolate with a lower cocoa percentage and reduce the sugar if preferred. You can also top with marshmallows or a bit of whipped cream for a kid-friendly finish.

Q4: Can I make Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate vegan?

A4: Yes. Use plant-based milk (oat milk works exceptionally well) and swap the dark chocolate for a vegan chocolate bar or chips. Check labels to ensure no dairy ingredients and use a plant-based whipped topping if desired.

Q5: What’s the best chocolate to use for Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate: A Rich, Creamy Delight?

A5: I recommend a high-quality dark chocolate around 70% cocoa for balanced bitterness and sweetness. Single-origin bars add nuance, but any quality baking or eating chocolate (not compound chocolate) will make a rich, satisfying cup.

Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate: A Rich, Creamy Delight

Name: Authentic Italian Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice); 3 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped into small pieces; 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; Optional: whipped cream or non-dairy topping, mini marshmallows, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, orange zest, almond extract

Description

A thick and cozy hot chocolate made with whole milk and high-quality dark chocolate, perfect for a decadent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
3 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped into small pieces
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional: whipped cream or non-dairy topping, mini marshmallows, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, orange zest, almond extract

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and sugar until combined.
Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once the milk is hot, reduce the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, stirring until melted.
Gradually add the cornstarch-sugar mix while whisking continuously for about 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Pour the hot chocolate into warmed mugs and top with desired toppings, then serve immediately.

Notes

For extra silkiness, use an immersion blender after melting the chocolate. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 2-3 days and reheated gently.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 300
Sugar: 23g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: hot chocolate, Italian hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, cozy drink