Imagine wrapping your hands around a mug of pure comfort, where rich chocolate meets the intoxicating aroma of real vanilla beans. This isn't just another hot cocoa recipe—it's a gourmet journey that will transform your ordinary winter evening into an extraordinary sensory adventure. Prepare to elevate your hot chocolate game with a recipe so luxurious, you'll feel like a professional barista crafted it just for you!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of milk, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 vanilla bean, and whipped cream for topping.
- In a medium saucepan, pour in the 2 cups of milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the milk gently, stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching.
- While the milk is heating, prepare the vanilla bean. Carefully split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a sharp knife, then use the back of the knife to scrape out the tiny seeds from inside.
- Once the milk is warm but not boiling, add the scraped vanilla bean seeds and the split bean to the saucepan. This will infuse the milk with a rich vanilla flavor.
- Next, add the 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of sugar to the milk. Whisk the mixture vigorously to combine all the ingredients, ensuring there are no lumps of cocoa powder.
- Continue to heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently, until it is hot and steaming but not boiling. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the hot cocoa is ready, remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the split vanilla bean pod.
- Pour the hot cocoa into two mugs, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious vanilla bean hot cocoa!
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality vanilla beans for the most intense flavor. The tiny seeds are where the magic happens!
- Heat milk gently to prevent scorching—medium heat is your friend. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Whisk cocoa powder thoroughly to avoid lumps. A smooth texture is key to a perfect hot cocoa.
- Don't let the mixture boil. Steaming is ideal for preserving the delicate flavors of vanilla and chocolate.
- For an extra indulgent touch, use whole milk or even add a splash of heavy cream for increased richness.
- If you don't have fresh vanilla beans, pure vanilla extract can be a good substitute (use 1 teaspoon).
- Experiment with toppings like marshmallows, cinnamon, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for added flair.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 208kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 32mg
