Low Sodium Classic Hot Chocolate

Total time15 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time10 min

Whole milk and heavy cream get warmed together until steaming, then whisked with finely chopped dark chocolate until the mixture turns glossy and rich — this is old-school hot chocolate made from scratch, not a powdered mix. Cocoa powder and a touch of sugar deepen the chocolate flavor, while a splash of vanilla rounds everything out at the end. Because you're building the whole drink yourself in one saucepan, there's no mystery seasoning blend to second-guess. That control is exactly what makes it such a solid fit if you're watching sodium closely, since you decide what goes into the pan and how much. Ladle it into mugs and finish with whipped cream or a handful of mini marshmallows for a cozy, comforting sip that still feels indulgent.

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Ingredients

2 servings

2 cups whole milk
a2 Milk Whole Milk - Half Gallon Organic Valley Grassmilk Organic Whole Milk Horizon Organic Shelf Stable Whole Milk - 12-8 Fl. Oz.Horizon Organic Whole Milk - 6pk/8 fl oz Boxes Maple Hill 100% Grass fed Organic Whole Milk 59 fl oz
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¼ cup heavy cream
2 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cacao), finely chopped
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp granulated sugar
⅛ tsp fine salt
Chef's tip
Season to taste - salt substitutes can taste bitter in larger amounts, so start with less.
½ tsp vanilla extract

For serving

whipped cream, for serving (optional)
mini marshmallows, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan. Add about 2 tbsp of the milk and whisk into a smooth paste with no dry lumps.
2
Pour in the remaining milk and the heavy cream, then set the saucepan over medium heat. Warm, whisking occasionally, until the mixture is steaming and small bubbles appear around the edges — about 4–5 minutes. Do not let it boil.

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