Kitchen Recipe Collection
Italian Cioccolata Calda (Hot Chocolate)
Italian hot chocolate is legendary. It is not a thin, milky drink, but rather a dense, rich, pudding-like chocolate that you can almost eat with a spoon.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 10 min
- Total
- 15 min
- Servings
- 2
- Difficulty
- easy
- Cuisine
- italian
Ingredients
Scaled for 2 servings
- whole milk
- dark chocolate (high quality, 70% cocoa)
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- granulated sugar
- cornstarch (the secret thickener)
- pinch of salt
- whipped cream (optional)
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
Instructions
- 1
Chop Chocolate
Finely chop the dark chocolate so it melts quickly and evenly.
- 2
Dry Ingredients
In a small saucepan (off the heat), whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- 3
Make a Paste
Pour just a splash of cold milk into the dry ingredients and whisk vigorously until it forms a smooth, lump-free paste.
- 4
Add Remaining Milk
Gradually whisk in the rest of the cold milk until fully incorporated.
- 5
Heat Gently
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir continuously with a whisk.
- 6
Add Chocolate
As the milk gets hot (but before it boils), add the chopped dark chocolate.
- 7
Thicken
Continue to whisk constantly. As it reaches a simmer, the cornstarch will activate and the mixture will suddenly thicken dramatically.
- 8
Simmer
Let it gently bubble for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency.
- 9
Remove from Heat
Take it off the heat. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
- 10
Serve
Pour into small mugs. Traditionally served with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream (panna montata) and a spoon.
Cooking Tips
- The cornstarch is non-negotiable; it is what gives Italian hot chocolate its signature spoonable density.
- Never stop whisking once it is on the heat, or the bottom will scorch and ruin the flavor.
Variations
- Cioccolata Calda al Peperoncino: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Chef's Notes & Storage
- In Italy, this is considered a dessert rather than a casual beverage to take on the go.
Nutrition Estimate
350 calories · 9g protein · 35g carbs · 20g fat · 4g fiber per serving
