Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Drink

There's something about a mug of rich, velvety hot chocolate that takes me back to winter afternoons spent in European cafés, watching the steam curl up while hazelnuts and chocolate melted together into pure comfort. I remember the first time I tried making this at home, thinking it couldn't possibly compare to what I'd tasted abroad, but when that hazelnut spread hit the warm milk, something magical happened in that saucepan.

I'll never forget the evening unexpected guests arrived and I had nothing but milk, chocolate, and that jar of hazelnut spread in my pantry. I stirred this up quickly, topped each mug with what I could find, and watched their faces light up with that first sip. That's when I knew this wasn't just hot chocolate, it was a way to turn an ordinary moment into something memorable.

Ingredients

• Whole milk (3 cups): This is your base, and I always reach for whole milk because it creates that silky mouthfeel that skim milk just can't match. Cold straight from the fridge works best.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): This is what transforms good hot chocolate into the kind you remember. It adds richness and helps create that luxurious coating on your tongue.
• Dark chocolate (100 g, at least 60% cocoa), chopped: Buy a bar you actually want to eat, because that quality matters. I chop it roughly so it melts faster and more evenly into the milk.
• Chocolate hazelnut spread (4 tbsp): This is your secret weapon. It brings both chocolate and hazelnut together in one jar, and honestly, it's what makes this recipe special instead of just another hot chocolate.
• Granulated sugar (2 tbsp, optional): Only add this if you want it sweeter. I usually skip it because the spread already brings sweetness, but taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
• Whipped cream, chopped toasted hazelnuts, chocolate shavings (optional garnish): These are the finishing touches that make people lean in closer to their mug. The toasted hazelnuts especially add a crunch and deeper flavor that really brings everything home.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Measure out your milk and cream into a medium saucepan. Chop your dark chocolate into small pieces so it melts quickly and evenly. Have your hazelnut spread nearby. This is one of those recipes where having everything prepared means the whole process flows smoothly and you're not fumbling around.

Create the Perfect Heat:

Pour the milk and cream into the pan and place it over medium heat. Watch it carefully as it warms, stirring occasionally. You want to see steam rising and feel the warmth when you hold your hand above it, but you're not looking for a rolling boil. That gentle heat is key because it keeps the chocolate from becoming grainy or separated.

The Part Where Magic Happens:

Add your chopped dark chocolate and that spoonful of hazelnut spread to the warm milk. This is the moment everything changes. Start whisking slowly, and you'll feel the chocolate beginning to soften, then melt. Keep whisking until there are no lumps left and the mixture looks smooth and glossy. You should be able to smell the hazelnuts and chocolate coming together, and that's how you know you're doing it right.

Taste and Adjust:

At this point, taste a small spoonful from the edge of the pan (carefully, it's hot). Does it need more sweetness? Add your sugar now if you'd like, whisking until the granules dissolve completely into the warm liquid. This is your moment to make it exactly how you want it.

The Final Warming:

Continue heating for those last 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture will become even thicker and creamier as it heats through. Listen for gentle bubbles at the edges, and watch the color deepen. When it smells absolutely irresistible, you're ready.

The Finish Line:

Pour into your favorite mugs slowly, filling them about three-quarters full. This is where you can be as generous or restrained with toppings as you want. A dollop of whipped cream, a scatter of toasted hazelnuts, a few chocolate shavings, or go wild with all of them. Serve immediately while it's still steaming.

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There was a winter morning when I made this for someone I hadn't seen in years, and watching them wrap their hands around that warm mug and close their eyes at the first sip reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful moments happen over something simple and warm and made with care.

Making It Dairy Free

If you're navigating dairy restrictions, this recipe bends beautifully. Oat milk or almond milk work wonderfully as your base, though I find oat milk closest to the creaminess of whole milk. The trick is finding a plant based chocolate hazelnut spread, and they do exist. Your local grocery store likely has options, or you can order them online. The cooking method stays exactly the same, and honestly, you won't feel like you're missing anything.

When You're Missing Something

This recipe is forgiving in the best ways. Don't have heavy cream? Use all milk and it will still be lovely, just slightly less rich. Want more hazelnut flavor? Add another tablespoon of the spread. Out of dark chocolate? Milk chocolate works, though it will be sweeter. The beauty here is that you're working with a concept you can absolutely adapt as you go. I've made this with less than half the ingredients listed and it has still tasted like a hug in a mug.

• A splash of hazelnut liqueur like Frangelico turns this into an adult version that feels special for after dinner moments
• If you find your chocolate is too intense, a pinch of sea salt actually makes it taste more balanced and interesting
• Make a double batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Gentle reheating brings it right back to silky perfection

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I've served this alongside things that made the whole moment feel intentional. A simple biscuit, a small pastry, or even just a square of dark chocolate on the side gives people something to pair with their sip. On cold mornings, it's my answer to breakfast. In the evening, it's how I say 'let's slow down and be present together.' I've also discovered that serving this in proper mugs rather than teacups makes people feel like they're somewhere special, even if it's their own kitchen.

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This hot chocolate is proof that the simplest moments often bring the most comfort. Make it whenever you need warmth, whenever you want to feel a little cared for, or whenever someone else deserves that feeling.