Rich and Creamy Mexican Hot Chocolate
Make this traditional Mexican hot chocolate for a rich, comforting beverage. It balances deep chocolate flavor with warming cinnamon and a hint of spice, perfect for cozy evenings.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert Drink
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 ounces Mexican chocolate (like Ibarra or Taza), chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon masa harina (optional, for a thicker drink like Champurrado)
Instructions
- Combine the milk, chopped Mexican chocolate, sugar, cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a medium saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and the sugar dissolves. Do not let it boil.
- If you want a thicker drink, whisk the masa harina into 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir this slurry into the chocolate mixture.
- Continue to heat gently, stirring often, until the drink reaches your desired temperature and thickness (about 5 to 8 minutes). Remove the cinnamon stick.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- To achieve the traditional frothy texture, use a whisk or a traditional molinillo to vigorously beat the hot chocolate until a layer of foam forms on top. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender for 30 seconds.
- Pour immediately into mugs and serve hot.
Notes
- For an extra rich and creamy texture, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- If you prefer a very thick, traditional drink, increase the masa harina to 2 tablespoons and simmer for an extra 5 minutes after adding it.
- Serve this cozy chocolate beverage topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 30