Description
Orange Hot Chocolate is a rich and velvety drink infused with fresh orange peel and melted dark chocolate. Naturally flavored and gently sweetened with maple syrup, this cozy beverage delivers deep chocolate richness with bright citrus notes.
Ingredients
- 1 large orange (peel removed in wide strips, plus 1/2 teaspoon finely grated zest for garnish)
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk of choice
- 3.5 ounces (100 g) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) pure maple syrup
- 1 pinch ground ginger (about 1/16 teaspoon)
- 1 small pinch salt (about 1/16 teaspoon)
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (optional topping)
- 1 tablespoon chocolate shavings (optional topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest (optional topping)
Instructions
- Using a vegetable peeler, remove the orange peel in wide strips, avoiding the white pith. Set aside a small amount of zest for garnish.
- Pour milk into a saucepan and add the orange peel strips. Warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Turn off heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes (up to 1 hour for stronger flavor).
- Remove and discard the orange peels.
- Return saucepan to medium heat and add chopped dark chocolate, maple syrup, ground ginger, and salt.
- Whisk continuously until chocolate is fully melted and mixture is smooth. Do not allow to boil.
- Pour evenly into two mugs.
- Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh orange zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Avoid boiling to prevent scorching and separation.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for best texture and flavor.
- For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream.
- Store refrigerated up to 2 days and reheat gently.
- Add cinnamon or espresso powder for variation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
