Creamy Hot Chocolate

Preparation

Step 1: Heat the milk

Pour the whole milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan and heat over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Watch carefully: the milk should be hot but must not boil.

Remove from heat as soon as small bubbles appear around the edges. The ideal temperature is around 70°C (158°F), when the milk begins to simmer.

Step 2: Melt the chocolate

Meanwhile, break the dark chocolate into small pieces in a bowl. Pour one-third of the hot milk over the chocolate and let it rest for 2 minutes without stirring.

Then gently stir from the center outward until you get a smooth and shiny paste. Add the honey and mix well. The chocolate must be completely melted and homogeneous.

Step 3: Assemble the drink

Pour the chocolate mixture into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk. Add the vanilla sugar. Whisk vigorously until you get a perfectly smooth and homogeneous drink.

Return to very low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed with a little more honey or sugar.

Step 4: Whip the cream

In a well-chilled bowl, pour the very cold heavy cream. Whip it into firm whipped cream, adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar if you like sweeter drinks.

The whipped cream should form firm peaks but remain supple. Don’t whip too long or it will turn into butter.

Step 5: Serve and decorate

Pour the hot chocolate drink into four cups or mugs. Generously spoon homemade whipped cream on top of each cup.

Dust with a veil of sifted cocoa powder through a small strainer. Add a few marshmallows for an even more indulgent touch.

Step 6: Enjoy

Serve the drink immediately, piping hot, with a small spoon to mix the whipped cream into the chocolate. Every sip is a pure moment of comfort.

This creamy hot chocolate is perfect for a winter afternoon tea or a spring brunch. Pair with shortbread cookies for an irresistible texture contrast.