This thick Italian hot chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink, perfect for cold days or when you want a rich, indulgent dessert in a cup. Made with real dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and a touch of cornstarch, it has a luxuriously smooth and velvety texture that feels like sipping warm chocolate pudding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy to make yet feels elegant and café-worthy. The combination of real dark chocolate and cocoa powder creates an intense chocolate flavor, while the cornstarch gives it that signature Italian thickness. It’s comforting, warming, and perfect for serving to family or guests when you want something simple but special.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold milk until completely smooth and free of lumps. Set aside.
Pour the remaining milk into a medium saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it starts to steam. Do not let it boil.
Add the cocoa powder and sugar to the warm milk and whisk until fully dissolved.
Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and continue whisking until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring nonstop, until the hot chocolate thickens to a rich, creamy consistency.
Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Serve immediately while hot and velvety.
For a dairy-free version, use almond milk, oat milk, or another plant-based milk.
For a spiced twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or a tiny dash of cayenne pepper while heating the milk.
If you prefer an extra-thick consistency, increase the cornstarch slightly, adding no more than an additional teaspoon at a time.
For a sweeter version, add an extra tablespoon of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey.
Storage/Reheating
Italian hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, transfer it to a small saucepan and warm gently over low heat, stirring constantly. Add a splash of milk if it becomes too thick to restore a smooth consistency.
FAQs
What makes Italian hot chocolate different from regular hot chocolate?
Italian hot chocolate is much thicker and richer, thanks to the addition of cornstarch and real melted chocolate.
Can I use milk alternatives in this recipe?
Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or other dairy-free options work well, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.
Is this recipe very sweet?
It’s moderately sweet. You can easily adjust the sugar to suit your taste.
Why do I need to mix cornstarch with cold milk first?
Mixing it with cold milk prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and refrigerate it, then gently reheat on the stove.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is best to balance the sweetness of the chocolate.
How thick should the hot chocolate be?
It should coat a spoon and feel velvety, similar to a thin pudding.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a slightly larger saucepan.
What toppings go well with this hot chocolate?
Whipped cream, marshmallows, or a light dusting of cocoa powder all work beautifully.
Can I adjust the thickness after cooking?
Yes, add a little warm milk to thin it or cook slightly longer to thicken it more.
Conclusion
This thick Italian hot chocolate is a simple yet indulgent treat that brings warmth and comfort with every sip. Rich, creamy, and full of deep chocolate flavor, it’s perfect for cozy evenings, special occasions, or anytime you want a luxurious dessert drink made right at home.
This Thick Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda) is rich, creamy, and velvety—like drinking warm chocolate pudding. Made with real dark chocolate and cocoa powder, it’s a cozy and indulgent treat perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup dark chocolate (60–70% cacao), finely chopped
Instructions
In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold milk until smooth and lump-free. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not boil.
Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until fully dissolved.
Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until completely melted and smooth.
Slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture while stirring constantly.
Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring nonstop, until the hot chocolate thickens to a creamy, pudding-like consistency.
Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use almond, oat, or other plant-based milk.
Add cinnamon or cayenne for a spiced variation.
Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
