Can I make Parisian Hot Chocolate ahead of time?

Yes! Parisian Hot Chocolate stores beautifully. Simply let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring continuously. Avoid boiling to preserve its creamy texture.

What’s the best chocolate percentage to use?

For the richest flavor, use dark or bittersweet chocolate with 60% to 70% cacao content. Anything higher (like 80–85%) will make the drink more intense and slightly bitter, while anything lower may be too sweet and lose the classic French profile. Choose high-quality bars, not chips, for the best melt.

How is Parisian Hot Chocolate different from regular hot cocoa?

The difference is in intensity and texture . Unlike American-style hot cocoa made with cocoa powder and sugar, Parisian Hot Chocolate is made with real melted chocolate and whole milk, resulting in a thicker, more luxurious drink. It's also less sweet and more focused on pure chocolate flavor, making it perfect for true chocolate lovers.

Parisian Hot Chocolate Recipe: Thick, Creamy & Totally Indulgent

Name: Parisian Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 cups (1L) whole milk; 10 ounces (260g) bittersweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped; 4 to 8 tablespoons (50g to 100g) light brown sugar, to taste

Description

This Parisian Hot Chocolate is a luxurious French drink made with just three ingredients: high-quality bittersweet chocolate, whole milk, and brown sugar. Rich, thick, and velvety smooth, it’s the perfect cozy treat for chilly days and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups (1L) whole milk
10 ounces (260g) bittersweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped
4 to 8 tablespoons (50g to 100g) light brown sugar, to taste

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Instructions

Heat the whole milk in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until very warm, but not boiling.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Return the pan to medium heat and bring the hot chocolate to a slow simmer. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and whisk in the brown sugar. Start with 1 tablespoon, taste, and adjust the sweetness as desired.
Pour the hot chocolate into small cappuccino or tea cups and serve immediately.

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate with 60–70% cacao for best flavor.
Do not let the milk boil; heat it gently to avoid burning.
The drink is traditionally served in small cups due to its richness.
Optional: garnish with whipped cream or a pinch of sea salt.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 55mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 15mg