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Starbucks Copycat Hot Chocolate

Starbucks copycat hot chocolate is made on the stovetop with cocoa, milk, and melted semisweet chocolate for a smooth, rich drink. Finish each mug with whipped cream for a cozy coffeehouse-style treat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 11 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Drink
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the hot chocolate
  • 2 cups whole milk divided
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 2 oz semisweet chocolate finely chopped
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
For serving
  • 0.5 cup whipped cream

Equipment

  • 1 2-quart saucepan

Method
 

Make the hot chocolate
  1. In a 2-quart saucepan, whisk the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and 1/4 cup of the milk until smooth, then whisk in the remaining milk.
  2. Heat over medium heat, whisking often, for 4 to 6 minutes, until steaming with small bubbles around the edges; do not boil.
  3. Remove the saucepan from the heat, add the chopped chocolate and vanilla, and whisk until the chocolate is completely melted.
Serve
  1. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 mugs and top each with whipped cream.

Notes

For the smoothest texture, whisk the cocoa mixture until no lumps remain before adding the rest of the milk. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days; freezing is not recommended. For a dairy-free option, use an unsweetened plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate and whipped topping.