Authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate: Rich and Frothy Comfort
Make rich and creamy Mexican hot chocolate at home using simple steps. This recipe includes cinnamon and a hint of spice for an authentic, cozy winter drink.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Total Time: 15 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert Drink
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces Mexican chocolate (like Ibarra or Abuelita), chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional, for authentic heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine the milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Heat the mixture until it is steaming but not boiling.
- Add the chopped Mexican chocolate, sugar, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the saucepan.
- Whisk the mixture constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the sugar is dissolved. Do not let the mixture boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- To achieve the traditional froth, use a whisk or a traditional molinillo (if you have one) to vigorously beat the chocolate mixture until a layer of foam forms on top. If using a blender, carefully transfer the hot liquid to the blender (vent the lid) and blend on low speed for 30 seconds, then pour back into the saucepan.
- Serve the rich and creamy Mexican hot chocolate immediately in mugs.
Notes
- Mexican chocolate tablets often contain sugar and cinnamon already, so taste the mixture before adding extra sugar.
- For a thicker drink similar to Champurrado, whisk in 1 tablespoon of masa harina with 2 tablespoons of cold milk before adding it to the hot liquid.
- This recipe uses standard ingredients found in most American grocery stores.
- Top with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 28
- Sodium: 110
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 7
- Cholesterol: 55