Warm up your day with an easy Hershey's hot chocolate for one, a quick and cozy treat. This single-serving recipe is simple to make and brings comforting chocolate bliss to your mug.
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There’s nothing quite like a warm mug of hot chocolate to brighten a cold day. For me, it’s the ultimate comfort, bringing back memories of snowy afternoons and the sweet, rich cocoa aroma filling the kitchen. This Hershey's hot chocolate is my go-to when I need a little pick-me-up, whether I’m curled up with a book or treating myself after a long day.
This recipe is simple to make, tastes incredible, and feels like a small moment of luxury that can be whipped up anytime. It pairs perfectly with a single-serve chocolate chip cookie and comes together with a Hershey’s bar, cocoa, and a few kitchen staples. This makes it perfect for those times when I want something special without the hassle. It's also easy to customize depending on what I'm craving.
This hot chocolate for one is an easy way to add some warmth and happiness to your day. It’s a timeless recipe that works just as well for family movie nights as it does for solo moments of relaxation. So, grab your favorite mug, cozy up, and treat yourself to this classic Hershey’s recipe!
Ingredients
- Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar: Melts smoothly for a creamy and indulgent chocolate base.
- Whole Milk: Provides a rich and velvety texture while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Adds extra creaminess and a luscious, thick consistency.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor for a bold, balanced taste.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness with a hint of molasses for depth.
- Coffee: Subtly boosts the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.
Instructions
To get started, grab a small saucepan and your favorite mug. Then, follow these simple step-by-step directions.
In a small saucepan, combine cocoa powder, brown sugar, and coffee.
Pour milk and cream over the cocoa powder mixture.
Stir until well combined for 5 minutes.
Open the stovetop to very low heat and continue to stir until the hot chocolate mixture starts to heat up without allowing it to simmer or boil, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Add chopped chocolates. Continue stirring for 2 minutes or until the chocolates are completely melted. Turn off the heat.
Cool for 1 minute and transfer hot chocolate to a serving glass. Top with mini marshmallows and dust with cocoa powder.
Hint: gently heat the milk and heavy cream without boiling them. This prevents the chocolate from seizing and ensures the cocoa powder dissolves smoothly, creating a creamy and well-blended drink. Stir constantly to keep the chocolate evenly melted and avoid scorching.
Variations
Here are some easy ways to customize your hot chocolate recipe for one:
- Add a Flavor Boost: Stir in a dash of vanilla extract, peppermint extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground nutmeg for a warming kick.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Swap whole milk for oat milk or add more heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Infuse with More Coffee: Replace a small portion of milk with brewed coffee for a mocha twist.
- Experiment with Toppings: Use whipped cream, chocolate shavings, crushed candy canes, or caramel drizzle for a fun finish.
- Go Nutty: Stir in a spoonful of hazelnut spread or peanut butter for a nutty twist.
- Add a Boozy Touch: Mix in a splash of Baileys, Kahlua, or bourbon for a grown-up version.
- Try Alternative Sweeteners: Replace brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave for unique sweetness.
- Mix Up the Chocolate: Use a mix of milk, dark, or white chocolate for varied depth of flavor.
- Make It Vegan: Swap dairy products for almond, coconut, or soy milk, and use vegan chocolate.
These small tweaks can make your drink feel special and tailored to your taste!
Tips
Top tip: Use fresh whole milk and a Hershey’s milk chocolate bar for a smooth, creamy base.
- Chop the Chocolate Finely: Small pieces melt more evenly and quickly, ensuring a velvety texture.
- Warm the Milk Gently: Heat milk over low to medium heat to prevent scorching and achieve a silky consistency.
- Try a Pinch of Salt: A tiny pinch of salt enhances the chocolate’s flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or chocolate to suit your preferences.
- Avoid Overheating: Remove the hot chocolate from the heat as soon as it’s warm and fully melted to prevent it from becoming grainy.
- Use a Whisk: Stirring with a whisk ensures a smooth blend and incorporates air for a frothy finish.
- Serve Immediately: Hot chocolate tastes best fresh, so enjoy it right after making it!
Serving suggestions
Presentation can make your experience even more special. Use your favorite mug to serve the hot chocolate for warm and cozy vibes. For an extra indulgent touch, rim the edge of the mug with melted chocolate or caramel and dip it in crushed candy canes, graham crackers, or sprinkles.
A generous dollop of whipped cream is a classic choice, providing a light, creamy contrast to the rich chocolate. Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top for a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth finish. You could also drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the whipped cream or dust a pinch of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a flavorful twist. Adding chocolate shavings or a single chocolate stick as garnish will also enhance the taste and visual appeal.
Pair your hot chocolate with a snack or treat to turn it into a complete moment of indulgence. Shortbread cookies, almond biscotti, or a slice of banana bread make excellent accompaniments. If you're feeling festive, try serving it with a holiday-inspired treat like a slice of gingerbread loaf or peppermint bark. For a lighter option, pair it with fresh strawberries or apple slices to contrast the richness of the drink.
Storage
Storing Hershey's hot chocolate for one is simple if you need to save leftovers or make it slightly ahead of time. Allow the hot chocolate to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or a heat-safe jar with a secure lid. Refrigerate it for up to 2 days to maintain its flavor and texture. Keep in mind that the milk and cream-based mixture can thicken slightly as it cools, so you may need to adjust it when reheating.
To reheat the hot chocolate, pour it into a small saucepan and warm it gently over low to medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. This method helps maintain the creamy consistency and prevents separation. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it to your desired texture. Avoid reheating it in the microwave if possible, as it can heat unevenly and cause the drink to lose its smoothness. Stirring as it warms will ensure the cocoa and chocolate blend seamlessly for the perfect cup every time.
FAQs
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with any milk you prefer, such as almond milk, oat milk, or 2% milk. However, keep in mind that whole milk adds a creamier texture, which enhances the richness of the hot chocolate.
If it’s too sweet, you can balance it by adding a pinch of salt or more unsweetened cocoa powder. If it’s not sweet enough, stir in additional brown sugar or a bit of honey until it reaches your preferred sweetness level.
Yes, you can prepare the hot chocolate in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to maintain the smooth and creamy consistency.
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Recipe
Hershey's Hot Chocolate for One
Ingredients
- 1.55 ounces Hershey's milk chocolate bar chopped
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon coffee
TOPPING: (optional)
- 2 tablespoons mini marshmallows
- pinch of unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine cocoa powder, brown sugar, and coffee.
- Pour milk and cream over the cocoa powder mixture. Stir until well combined for 5 minutes.
- Over the stovetop to very low heat and continue to stir until the hot chocolate mixture starts to heat up without allowing it to simmer or boil, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add chopped chocolates. Continue stirring for 2 minutes or until the chocolates are completely melted. Turn off the heat. Cool for 1 minute and transfer hot chocolate to a serving glass.
- Top with mini marshmallows and dust with cocoa powder.
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