Description
Spooky nights call for halloween extra-dark hot cocoa, a bewitching brew that conjures midnight magic in every sip. Dark chocolate and mysterious spices blend into a rich, haunting elixir that warms cold spirits and delights adventurous palates.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (the darkest you can find)
Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Spice and Garnishes:
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Whipped cream
- Orange and black sprinkles
- Marshmallow ghosts (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Combine cocoa powder and sugar in a medium saucepan, creating a dry base for the rich Halloween-themed beverage.
- Gradually introduce milk and cream into the powder mixture, using a whisk to blend smoothly and eliminate potential clumps.
- Position the saucepan over medium heat and incorporate the chopped dark chocolate, stirring consistently to ensure even melting.
- Continue heating and stirring until the chocolate fully dissolves and the liquid reaches a steaming temperature, avoiding any boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat source and infuse the cocoa with vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and optional pumpkin pie spice for a festive twist.
- Transfer the velvety dark cocoa into festive mugs, preparing for the final decorative touches.
- Crown the beverage with a cloud of whipped cream, playful Halloween sprinkles, and a whimsical marshmallow ghost to complete the spooky presentation.
Notes
- Enhance chocolate intensity by using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
- Create dairy-free version by substituting milk and cream with almond, oat, or coconut milk to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan preferences.
- Customize spice levels by adjusting pumpkin pie spice or experimenting with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a personalized Halloween twist.
- Prevent scorching by maintaining low to medium heat and stirring consistently to ensure smooth, silky texture without burning chocolate or milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg