spanish hot chocolate drink recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best spanish hot chocolate drink recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Spanish hot chocolate recipe. This rich and decadent drink is a staple in Spain, where it’s known as ‘Chocolate Español.’ It’s made with high-quality dark chocolate, sweetened with a touch of sugar, and thickened with a splash of heavy cream.

The first time I tried it was on a chilly winter morning in Barcelona, and I was hooked. The deep, velvety texture and the deep flavors of the chocolate were like nothing I’d ever experienced before. I knew right then that I had to learn how to make it at home.

After some trial and error, I finally perfected the recipe, and now it’s a regular fixture at our family gatherings. My kids love it when we have hot chocolate parties, and I love watching them enjoy this special treat. But it’s not just for special occasions – we drink it all winter long, whenever we need a pick-me-up.

And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make! All you need is some good-quality chocolate, milk or cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt.

That’s it! No fancy equipment or ingredients required. Just pure, unadulterated bliss in a mug.

Spanish Hot Chocolate

4.7 from 1446 votes

This authentic Spanish hot chocolate is thick, rich, and intensely chocolatey, perfect for dipping churros. Unlike typical American hot cocoa, it is made with dark chocolate and cornstarch to create a luxurious, pudding-like texture.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Hot Chocolate

4 cups whole milk
8 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao), chopped
3 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1/2 cup of the cold milk until completely smooth, with no lumps.
2Set this slurry aside while you heat the remaining milk.
3Pour the remaining 3 1/2 cups of milk into a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
4Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the surface.
5Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped dark chocolate, sugar, and salt to the warm milk.
6Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes.
7Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the chocolate milk while whisking constantly.
8Continue to cook over low heat, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency, about 5 to 7 minutes.
9It should coat the back of a spoon.
10Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
11Pour the hot chocolate into mugs immediately, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
12Serve hot with churros or a piece of bread for dipping.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Small bowl
Mugs for serving

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 13g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 120mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use semi-sweet chocolate and reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons. The hot chocolate should be thick enough to coat a churro, but if it becomes too thick, whisk in a splash of warm milk. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stove, adding milk to thin as needed.

Watch Video Of How Spanish Hot Chocolate Works

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a cozy pick-me-up on a chilly day. The best part?

It’s ridiculously easy to make! Just combine your ingredients in a saucepan over low heat until smooth and creamy.

Serve immediately or let cool completely before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently over low heat until warm and frothy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spanish Hot Chocolate

What is Spanish hot chocolate?

Spanish hot chocolate is a rich and creamy drink made with high-quality dark chocolate, sweetened with sugar, and thickened with heavy cream. It’s a staple in Spain, where it’s known as ‘Chocolate Español.’

Is Spanish hot chocolate the same as Mexican hot chocolate?

No, while both are delicious hot chocolate drinks, they are made with different types of chocolate and have distinct flavor profiles. Spanish hot chocolate is typically made with dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), while Mexican hot chocolate is often made with milk or white chocolate.

Can I use any type of milk in Spanish hot chocolate?

While traditional Spanish hot chocolate is made with heavy cream or whole milk, you can use any type of milk you prefer. However, keep in mind that using skim milk or almond milk will result in a lighter flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover Spanish hot chocolate?

You can store leftover Spanish hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat until warm and frothy.

Can I make Spanish hot chocolate ahead of time?

You can prepare the drink base (chocolate mixture) ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Then simply whisk in the heavy cream or milk when you’re ready to serve.

Is Spanish hot chocolate suitable for vegans?

No, traditional Spanish hot chocolate contains dairy products (heavy cream or whole milk). However, you can easily make a vegan version by substituting the dairy products with non-dairy alternatives such as soy cream or coconut cream.

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