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Cozy Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa – Easy 10-Min Recipe

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This rich and creamy hot cocoa features a homemade caramel base, dark cocoa, and a touch of flaky sea salt. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort drink for cold nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2%)
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (like Maldon)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (for whipped cream)
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
  • Optional garnish: extra flaky sea salt, caramel drizzle, or chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Make the caramel base: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Once bubbling, add ¼ cup packed brown sugar. Stir constantly with a whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes thick and bubbly—about 2 minutes.
  2. Add the cream: Slowly pour in ¼ cup heavy cream while whisking continuously. The mixture will bubble up; keep whisking until it smooths out and returns to a gentle simmer, about 1 minute.
  3. Build the cocoa: Pour in 2 cups whole milk, then add 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt. Whisk vigorously to break up any lumps.
  4. Heat through: Continue whisking over medium heat until the cocoa is steaming hot but not boiling—about 3-4 minutes. Tiny bubbles will form around the edges. Do not let it boil.
  5. Finish with vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness if desired.
  6. Make the whipped cream: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup cold heavy cream, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract. Whip with a hand mixer on medium-high until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
  7. Assemble and serve: Divide the hot cocoa between two mugs. Top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and optional caramel drizzle or chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the fluffiest whipped cream, chill your bowl and beaters for 10 minutes before starting. Do not rush the caramel—medium heat is key to avoid burning. Whisk thoroughly to prevent cocoa lumps. Heat until steaming but not boiling to avoid curdling. Flaky sea salt is essential for the salty-sweet balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel hot cocoa, hot chocolate, caramel hot cocoa, easy hot cocoa, winter drink, cozy drink, homemade hot cocoa

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/cozy-salted-caramel-hot-cocoa-easy-10-min-recipe/