Castilian (Spanish) Hot Chocolate Recipe
Introduction
Castilian hot chocolate is a rich and velvety Spanish treat, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This thick and glossy chocolate drink is deeply satisfying and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 2.5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 cups whole milk
Instructions
- Step 1: In a pan, mix the cocoa powder and sugar together until well combined.
- Step 2: Dissolve the cornstarch in the water, then add this mixture to the pan. Stir everything together to form a smooth paste.
- Step 3: Begin heating the mixture over medium heat. Using a whisk, slowly pour in the whole milk while continuing to stir.
- Step 4: Keep whisking frequently and heat the mixture until it comes to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook while stirring until the hot chocolate thickens and develops a glossy texture, with a deeper color.
- Step 5: Pour the thick hot chocolate into large mugs and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, use half-and-half or add a splash of cream instead of some of the milk.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract for a subtle flavor twist.
- Whisk constantly near the end of cooking to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Storage
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, whisking to restore the smooth consistency. Avoid microwaving directly to maintain the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk. Keep in mind this may affect the thickness and flavor slightly.
Why does my hot chocolate lose thickness when reheated?
Thickened hot chocolate can thin as it cools and reheats. To restore thickness, reheat gently while whisking, or add a small slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold milk during reheating.
PrintCastilian (Spanish) Hot Chocolate Recipe
This authentic Castilian (Spanish) Hot Chocolate recipe delivers a rich, thick, and intensely chocolatey drink, perfect as a comforting treat or a decadent breakfast accompaniment. Made with unsweetened cocoa, sugar, cornstarch, and whole milk, it simmers to a glossy, pudding-like consistency that is distinctive of traditional Spanish hot chocolate.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 2.5 Tbsp cornstarch
Liquid Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 cups whole milk
Instructions
- Mix Cocoa and Sugar: In a pan, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder and sugar together thoroughly to ensure even flavor throughout the drink.
- Dissolve Cornstarch: Dissolve the cornstarch in 1/2 cup of water until smooth, then add this mixture to the pan with the cocoa and sugar. Stir constantly to create a smooth paste without lumps.
- Add Milk and Heat: Using a whisk, slowly pour in the 4 cups of whole milk into the pan while stirring to combine evenly. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently to prevent scorching.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to whisk and cook until the hot chocolate thickens significantly, becoming glossy and deepening in color to achieve a rich, pudding-like texture.
- Serve: Once thickened, pour the hot chocolate into large mugs and serve immediately for a luscious and traditional Spanish treat.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the best creamy texture; lower fat milks may result in a thinner consistency.
- Whisking constantly prevents lumps and helps develop the smooth, glossy finish characteristic of Castilian hot chocolate.
- This hot chocolate is thicker than typical hot cocoa; it can also be enjoyed as a dessert with churros.
- For an extra touch, serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Keywords: Castilian hot chocolate, Spanish hot chocolate, thick hot chocolate, traditional hot chocolate, cocoa drink, warm drinks
