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To make this rich and creamy hot chocolate, gather these simple ingredients: - 4 cups milk (whole or your preferred dairy alternative) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste) - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish This hot chocolate recipe serves four. Each serving has about: - Calories: 400 - Total Fat: 24g - Saturated Fat: 15g - Cholesterol: 80mg - Sodium: 50mg - Carbohydrates: 42g - Fiber: 2g - Sugars: 34g - Protein: 8g The nutritional values can vary based on the type of milk and cream you choose. You can make some swaps in this recipe. Here are a few ideas: - Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. - Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a lighter option. - Dark chocolate chips can add more depth if you prefer a richer taste. - For a lower sugar version, use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Each substitution can change the flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment! {{ingredient_image_1}} To make this hot chocolate, start with the right ingredients. You will need: - 4 cups milk (whole or your preferred dairy alternative) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste) - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt - Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish First, pour the milk and heavy cream into your Instant Pot. Set it to the Sauté function for about 5 minutes. Stir the mixture often to warm it without boiling. This step helps blend the flavors well. Next, while your milk heats, take a bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients until they are well combined. This makes it easier to mix into the milk later. Once the milk is warm, turn off the sauté function. Gradually add the dry mixture to the milk. Whisk continuously as you mix to ensure it becomes smooth. Now, stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until the chocolate chips melt fully. The mixture should turn creamy and rich. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Choose the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and set the timer for 5 minutes. This will help blend the flavors even more. After the time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid, and give the hot chocolate a good stir. Taste it to see if you want to adjust the sweetness. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. For that extra touch, top each mug with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. This makes your drink look and taste even better. Enjoy your rich and creamy hot chocolate! To make hot chocolate super creamy, use whole milk and heavy cream. These two ingredients blend well and give it a rich taste. You can also try using a milk frother after cooking. This adds air and makes it even creamier. If you want to experiment, add a bit of cream cheese for extra richness. Just mix it in while the chocolate is warm. Sweetness is key to a great hot chocolate. Start with half a cup of sugar. After mixing, taste it. If it needs more sweetness, add a bit more sugar. You can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a touch of peppermint extract. These flavors add a nice twist without overpowering the chocolate taste. Cleaning your Instant Pot is easy. After making hot chocolate, let it cool down. Then, remove the inner pot and wash it with warm, soapy water. For tough spots, use a non-abrasive sponge. Don’t forget to clean the lid and sealing ring too. They can hold on to smells. Regular cleaning helps keep your Instant Pot in great shape for many more delicious recipes. Pro Tips Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate you use, the richer and more flavorful your hot chocolate will be. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best results. Adjust Sweetness: Everyone's taste for sweetness differs, so start with the suggested amount of sugar and adjust according to your preference. You can always add more, but it's harder to take it away! Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different flavorings, such as peppermint extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon, to customize your hot chocolate to your liking. Serve Immediately: Hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve it right after making for the creamiest and most indulgent experience. {{image_2}} You can change up the flavors of your hot chocolate easily. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. A dash of nutmeg can also add a nice kick. For a minty twist, stir in some peppermint extract. You can even add a splash of coffee for a mocha effect. Each of these tweaks will make your drink special and unique. If you want a dairy-free hot chocolate, use plant-based milk. Almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk work well. You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Just remember to check the flavors. Some plant milks are sweeter than others. Adjust the sugar to get the taste just right for you. Gourmet toppings can make your hot chocolate feel fancy. Try adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows for more fun. Drizzling caramel or chocolate syrup adds extra sweetness. For a more adult twist, add a splash of your favorite liqueur. These toppings make every cup feel like a treat. After enjoying your hot chocolate, you might have some left. Pour the leftover hot chocolate into an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, keeping it fresh is key. To reheat your hot chocolate, pour it into a pot or the microwave. Heat it on low to avoid scorching. Stir the hot chocolate as it warms up. If you use the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps it creamy and smooth. You can freeze hot chocolate if you want to save it for later. Pour the cooled hot chocolate into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When you're ready, just thaw and reheat. This is a fun way to enjoy a quick treat! Yes, you can make Instant Pot hot chocolate ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool. Pour it into a container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You might need to stir it well before serving. This way, you can enjoy a cozy drink anytime! You can easily adjust the sweetness of your hot chocolate. Start with the 1/2 cup of sugar in the recipe. After mixing, taste it. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar a little at a time. Stir well after each addition. You can also use flavored syrups or honey for a unique taste. Finding the right sweetness makes it your own! The best dairy alternative for hot chocolate is almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Almond milk gives a nutty taste, while oat milk adds creaminess. Coconut milk offers a rich flavor. You can use any of these instead of cow’s milk. Just make sure to choose unsweetened options if you want to control the sugar levels. Enjoy your hot chocolate your way! We covered the key parts of making hot chocolate in the Instant Pot. You learned about types of ingredients, how to prepare and cook, and ways to store it. I shared tips for a smooth texture and ways to adjust the flavor. You can also find ideas for fun variations. With all this info, you can impress friends and family with your new skills. Enjoy your rich and tasty hot chocolate made just right!

Creamy Dreamy Instant Pot Hot Chocolate

A rich and creamy hot chocolate made effortlessly in an Instant Pot.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups milk (whole or your preferred dairy alternative)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 0.25 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 serving whipped cream for garnish
  • 1 serving chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by adding the milk and heavy cream to your Instant Pot. Set it to the Sauté function for about 5 minutes to warm the mixture, stirring occasionally.
  • Once the milk mixture is warm, turn off the sauté function.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the warm milk, whisking continuously to combine until smooth.
  • Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla extract, mixing until the chocolate chips have fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
  • Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and set the timer for 5 minutes.
  • After the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid, stir the hot chocolate, and taste to adjust sweetness as desired.
  • Serve the hot chocolate in mugs, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.

Notes

Adjust the sweetness according to your taste.
Keyword dessert, hot chocolate, Instant Pot