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Authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate: Rich and Spiced Comfort Drink

Overhead view of rich, foamy mexican hot chocolate in a white mug sitting on a sunlit marble surface.
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Make rich and creamy Mexican hot chocolate on your stovetop. This authentic recipe uses cinnamon and a hint of spice for a comforting winter beverage.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups whole milk or preferred milk
  • 4 ounces Mexican chocolate tablets (like Ibarra or Abuelita), chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional, for authentic heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine the milk, chopped Mexican chocolate, sugar, cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a medium saucepan.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the chocolate is completely melted and the sugar is dissolved. Do not let the mixture boil.
  3. Once melted, remove the cinnamon stick. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. To achieve the traditional frothy texture, use a whisk or a traditional molinillo to vigorously whisk the chocolate mixture until a thick layer of foam forms on top. This step is key for authentic Mexican hot chocolate.
  5. Serve immediately in mugs. This is the best winter chocolate beverage for cozy evenings.

Notes

  • For an extra thick texture, similar to Champurrado inspired drinks, you can dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold milk and whisk it into the simmering chocolate mixture until it thickens slightly.
  • You can substitute the Mexican chocolate tablets with 4 ounces of good quality dark chocolate chips mixed with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves for a homemade Mexican chocolate mix flavor.
  • This recipe makes a deliciously spiced cocoa that warms you from the inside out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/mexican-hot-chocolate-recipe-simple-and-rich/