This warm and cozy salted caramel hot chocolate is the ultimate treat for chilly days. It’s a mix of rich chocolate, sweet caramel, and a sprinkle of salt that just makes everything better!
I love how easy it is to whip up a cup when I’m craving something sweet. Just pour, stir, and enjoy! Plus, who can resist that perfect sweet and salty combo? 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich and creamy texture. If dairy-free, almond or oat milk works well too—just pick one with a bit of thickness for the creamy feel.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor. You can swap it out for Dutch-process cocoa for a smoother taste if you like.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These provide rich chocolatey goodness. Feel free to use dark chocolate or even milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel is easy to use, but homemade caramel can elevate the flavor! Consider maple syrup as a substitute for a different sweet profile.
How Do I Make the Perfect Hot Chocolate?
The key to a splendid hot chocolate is the careful heating of your ingredients. Follow these steps for the best result:
- Start with medium heat to control the milk’s temperature; heating too fast can create a skin on the milk.
- Whisk constantly to dissolve the cocoa powder and sugar without clumping.
- Remove from heat before boiling to keep the chocolate from burning and losing its flavor.
- For a richer flavor, let it sit for a minute after removing from heat to meld the ingredients.
By taking your time and following these simple techniques, your salted caramel hot chocolate will be a delightful treat every time!
How to Make Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salted caramel hot chocolate can be made in about 10 minutes! Just a few minutes for prep and cooking, and you’ll have a delicious, warm drink ready to enjoy. Perfect for cozy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Milk:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat while whisking continuously. This helps to dissolve the cocoa and sugar completely while heating the milk. Make sure the milk becomes hot, but do not let it boil.
2. Melting in the Chocolate:
Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate to the saucepan. Keep stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Adding Flavor:
Once the chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, caramel sauce, and a pinch of sea salt. This adds delicious sweetness and a hint of savory flavor to your hot chocolate!
4. Pouring and Topping:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top with a generous helping of mini marshmallows. They will melt slightly into the hot chocolate, making it even more indulgent!
5. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the marshmallows and let it drip down the sides of the mug for that extra special touch. If you like, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs on top for added texture and a lovely crunch.
6. Time to Serve!
Serve your salted caramel hot chocolate immediately while it’s warm and cozy. Enjoy the rich combination of sweet and salty flavors—it’s sure to warm your heart and brighten your day!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute any non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Just choose one with a creamy texture for the best results, and adjust the sweetness if necessary since some non-dairy milks are sweeter than whole milk.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Even Richer?
For an ultra-rich hot chocolate, consider adding a tablespoon of heavy cream or a bit of sweetened condensed milk along with the milk. This will give your drink a delightful creaminess that’s hard to resist!
How Should I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Flavorings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding flavorings like peppermint extract, espresso powder for a mocha twist, or even a dash of cinnamon for a warm spice. Just add them while mixing in the vanilla for a balanced flavor!