Go Back
–+ servings
a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate topped with soft marshmallows.
Print Recipe
5 from 16 votes

Hot Chocolate For One

Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet, this single serving hot chocolate is made with real cocoa, milk, and cream. An easy small batch recipe that’s ready in minutes for a cozy homemade treat.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American, British
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Keyword: chocolate, homemade hot chocolate, hot chocolate, hot chocolate for one, hot chocolate from scratch, hot cocoa, single serving hot chocolate
Servings: 2 servings
Author: Joanie Zisk

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: whipped cream and/or marshmallows for topping
US - Metric

Instructions

  • In a small saucepan, warm milk and cream over medium heat.
    For a lighter version, use 1 cup milk instead.
  • In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon.
  • When the milk mixture is hot (but not boiling), slowly whisk in the cocoa mixture. Stir for about 4 minutes, until slightly thickened and darker in color.
  • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for a smooth, rich flavor.
  • Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.

Video

Notes

  • Warm Gently: Heat the milk and cream until hot but not boiling to keep your hot chocolate smooth and creamy.
  • Whisk Slowly: Gradually whisk the cocoa mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste and add more sugar or a pinch of cinnamon if you’d like extra sweetness or spice.
  • Use Quality Cocoa: For the best flavor, choose a good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder such as Ghirardelli, Guittard, or Valrhona. For a great budget-friendly option, Hershey’s Special Dark also makes a delicious cup. Chopped dark chocolate can be used for an extra rich, café-style drink.
  • Make It Frothy: For a café-style touch, whisk the hot chocolate briskly or use a milk frother just before pouring to create a light foam and smooth, creamy texture.
  • Store and Reheat: If you have extra, refrigerate in a covered jar for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often, until warm and smooth again.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 278kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 49mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 1000IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 117mg | Iron: 1mg

QR code

Scan this QR code with your phone's camera to view this recipe on your mobile device.

qr code