Desserts > Dessert Drinks > Hot Dessert Drinks Recipes > Gourmet Hot Chocolate Recipes
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Elevate your hot chocolate experience with this luxurious Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate recipe. The perfect balance of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and a hint of sea salt creates a comforting and sophisticated dessert drink that's sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 6 ounces Bittersweet Chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caramel Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Sea Salt
- Whipped Cream (optional)
- Caramel Drizzle (optional)
- Sea Salt Flakes (optional)
Step 1: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is steaming but not boiling. This creates a rich and creamy base for the hot chocolate.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Add the chopped bittersweet chocolate to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low and stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Ensure the chocolate doesn't burn by stirring continuously.
Step 3: Add Caramel and Flavor
Stir in the caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Pour the salted caramel hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and sea salt flakes, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the decadent flavors!
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)
Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
Fat: 25-30g
Saturated Fat: 15-20g
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Sugar: 25-30g
Protein: 5-7g
Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
This recipe is relatively high in fat and sugar due to the inclusion of heavy cream and caramel sauce. To reduce the calorie and fat content, consider using low-fat milk or a sugar-free caramel sauce. Adjust the amount of caramel sauce to control the sweetness.
FAQ
-
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate, depending on your preference. Keep in mind that the sweetness of the hot chocolate will vary depending on the type of chocolate used. -
Can I make my own caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds an extra touch of gourmet flavor to this hot chocolate. There are many recipes available online for making caramel sauce from scratch.