Spanish Hot Chocolate Recipe - The Bossy Kitchen (2024)

Delicious Spanish Hot Chocolate Recipe to make during the cold season. Serve it with churros or other little favorite pastries.

In this article, I will share a fantastic recipe for Spanish hot chocolate that you can make at home, along with some expert tips and FAQs. This Spanish hot chocolate is one of the most delightful things I had during my holiday vacation in Spain this year. You can order it at any restaurant or bar, and it is perfect for cold weather.

This recipe is part of my collection of favorite Spanish recipes, where you can find some popular dishes you probably would have if you had ever visited Spain. I am personally in love with this Spanish potato salad (Ensaladilla Rusa) that you can serve year-round. Roasted Red Pepper Salad is another favorite and you can always use fresh roasted peppers or canned jars that are easy to find in the grocery stores. For a hearty dish, you can try Baked Potatoes With Chicken And Spanish Chorizo or this Chickpeas Green Beans With Pork And Spanish Chorizo dish, which is comforting and perfect for chilly nights.

Let's not forget the dessert, this Orange-Almond Flan is elegant and also gluten-free, and this Spanish Almond Cake (Tarta De Santiago) is excellent with a cup of coffee.

So, what exactly is Spanish Hot Chocolate?

Spanish hot chocolate is a rich and creamy drink that is made by melting dark or semi-sweet chocolate in warm milk. The chocolate is typically mixed with cornstarch to obtain a thick, creamy, and smooth texture.

Sugar is added to taste; some variations include a pinch of cinnamon or black pepper to enhance the flavor. The result is a decadent treat that is perfect for warming up on chilly days.

When you visit Spain, trying out hot chocolate is a must-do activity. Known as "chocolate caliente" or "chocolate a la taza" (these names are used interchangeably), this drink is a staple in Spanish culture and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

It is traditionally served with churro pastries, which you can dip into the chocolate for an even more delightful experience. But if you can't get your hands on churros, any favorite pastry, such as doughnuts, would also go well with it. Spaniards also make buñuelos(Spanish donuts) and eat them with this chocolate.

It is always served piping hot, making it the perfect treat for chilly days. To get the best flavor, ensure you use high-quality chocolate. The difference in taste and quality of ingredients is always noticeable.

Living in Minnesota, I know firsthand the need for hot chocolate around here. It's freezing! Fortunately, I have some chocolate from Spain that I can use to make a steaming mug right now. And I would love to share it with you, especially those who also live in the frozen tundra.

Why This Recipe Works

• Easy to make. My recipe for Spanish hot chocolate is easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. By dissolving cornstarch or tapioca into the milk before adding the chocolate, you can achieve the perfect thickness and creaminess that is characteristic of Spanish hot chocolate.
• Versatile. The addition of sugar to taste and the optional cinnamon or black pepper gives the hot chocolate a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients needed

The recipe is for two cups of Spanish hot chocolate, and you will need:

• Whole milk. If you are lactose intolerant, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of whole milk.
• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate. If you prefer a sweeter hot chocolate, you can use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet chocolate.
• Cornstarch or tapioca. If you don't have cornstarch or tapioca, you can use arrowroot powder or potato starch as a substitute.
• Sugar to your taste
• Optional: A pinch of cinnamon and black pepper

A few words about chocolate

No chocolate chips, please!

When it comes to making Spanish hot chocolate, the type of chocolate you use is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. While chocolate chips may be convenient, they often contain additives that can affect the texture and flavor of the hot chocolate.

For the best results, it is recommended to use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa solids. Look for chocolate that is specifically labeled for baking or cooking, as these are designed to melt smoothly and evenly.

Suggestion for what to buy: Spanish chocolate( also look for some European dark chocolate or Mexican one) (affiliate link).

Additionally, it's important to choose chocolate that is free from additives such as vegetable oils, which can alter the texture and flavor of the hot chocolate. By using high-quality chocolate, you can ensure that your Spanish hot chocolate will have a rich, velvety texture and a decadent flavor that is truly authentic.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Dissolve the cornstarch or tapioca in the milk. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch or tapioca with a tablespoon of milk until it is fully dissolved.
2. Add sugar to your taste. In a separate bowl, add sugar to the milk and cornstarch mixture and stir until it is fully incorporated.
3. Chop the chocolate. Using a sharp knife, chop the chocolate into small pieces so that it melts quickly.
4. Warm up milk. Transfer the milk mixture to a pot and warm it up on medium heat, mixing continuously. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Add the chocolate and let it melt. Once the milk mixture is warm, add the chopped chocolate to the pot and continue stirring until the chocolate has melted completely.
6. Optional: Add the cinnamon or a pinch of black pepper to enhance the taste of your chocolate.
7. Keep mixing. Continue to stir the mixture until it becomes thick and smooth. It should have a velvety texture and be the consistency of a custard.
8. Pour it into cups and serve hot. Once the hot chocolate is ready, pour it into cups and serve immediately. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite pastries, such as churros or doughnuts.

Recipe FAQS

How To Store Hot Chocolate

You can store leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the mixture on the stove or in the microwave, and add more milk to adjust the consistency.

While you can freeze hot chocolate, it may not retain its texture and flavor when thawed. It is best to make it fresh and consume it within a few days.

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