Italian hot chocolate, or Cioccolata Calda, is a rich, velvety drink that’s much thicker and more indulgent than traditional hot chocolate. Made with real chocolate, milk, and a touch of cornstarch for added creaminess, this decadent treat is perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and luxurious. Every sip is a pure chocolate lover’s dream!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Thick & Creamy – Unlike regular hot cocoa, this has a pudding-like consistency.
- Rich Chocolate Flavor – Uses real chocolate for a deep, intense taste.
- Perfect for Cold Weather – A comforting drink to warm you up.
- Customizable – Adjust sweetness, spice, or toppings to suit your preference.
- Easy to Make – Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Whole milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- High-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher, finely chopped)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- Cornstarch (for thickness)
- Vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Directions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of milk to create a smooth paste.
- Heat the Milk – In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the remaining milk until hot but not boiling.
- Add the Cocoa Mixture – Slowly whisk the cocoa paste into the warm milk, stirring continuously.
- Melt the Chocolate – Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Thicken the Hot Chocolate – Continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a velvety consistency.
- Add Vanilla & Serve – Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then pour into cups and enjoy warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 cups
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spiced Italian Hot Chocolate – Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for extra warmth.
- Nutty Flavor – Stir in a spoonful of hazelnut or almond butter.
- Extra Creamy – Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Coffee Twist – Mix in a shot of espresso for a mocha-style version.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use almond, oat, or coconut milk with dairy-free chocolate.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk.
FAQs
How thick should Italian hot chocolate be?
It should have a thick, pudding-like consistency but still be drinkable.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but it will be sweeter and less intense in flavor.
What is the best chocolate to use?
High-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) provides the richest taste.
Can I make this without cornstarch?
Yes, but it won’t be as thick. You can substitute with arrowroot powder.
How do I make it even richer?
Use heavy cream instead of milk or add a bit of butter.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes! Chill it in the fridge for a thick, chocolate pudding-like dessert.
What toppings go well with this hot chocolate?
Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Can I add alcohol to this drink?
Yes! A splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or amaretto adds a fun twist.
Is this similar to French hot chocolate?
Yes, but Italian hot chocolate is even thicker than the French version.
Can I make this in a microwave?
Yes! Heat the milk in short intervals, stirring in between, until thick and smooth.
Conclusion
Sinfully delicious and luxuriously thick, this Italian hot chocolate is the ultimate winter indulgence. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with whipped cream, each sip is like drinking liquid chocolate. Try it today and experience the rich, creamy decadence of Cioccolata Calda!
PrintSinfully Delicious Thick Italian Hot Chocolate
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda) is luxuriously thick, almost like a melted chocolate pudding in a cup. Made with real chocolate, milk, and a touch of cornstarch, it’s smooth, velvety, and deeply chocolatey. Serve it with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa, or even a dash of cinnamon for an extra indulgence!
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
4 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), finely chopped
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for thickening)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
For Serving:
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting
Instructions
-
Prepare the Thickener:
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold milk until smooth. Set aside.
-
Heat the Milk & Cocoa:
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the remaining milk (but don’t let it boil).
- Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt, stirring continuously.
-
Melt the Chocolate:
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
-
Thicken the Hot Chocolate:
- Slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture, whisking constantly.
- Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until the hot chocolate thickens to a velvety, pudding-like consistency.
-
Finish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
- Extra Thick Version: Add an extra ½ tablespoon of cornstarch for an even richer, spoonable texture.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use oat milk or almond milk and dairy-free dark chocolate.
- Spiked Version: Add a splash of Baileys, Kahlúa, or Amaretto for an adult twist!
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *