If you’re craving a warm hug in a mug, this Creamy Hot Cocoa with Torched Marshmallows Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together rich, velvety chocolate with the indulgent creaminess of whole milk and heavy cream, topped off with perfectly toasted marshmallows that add a beautifully caramelized crunch and a hint of smokiness. This decadent treat is easy to make at home and transforms an ordinary cup of cocoa into a luxurious experience that feels just like a cozy night by the fire with your best friend. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to comfort drink for chilly evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the magic lineup that turns simple pantry staples into a cup of pure happiness. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the smoothness of whole milk and cream to the deep chocolate flavor and that perfect balance of sweetness and a pinch of salt to brighten it all up.
- Whole milk (2 cups): The creamy base that gives the cocoa a smooth, rich texture you’ll love.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Adds luxurious thickness and that extra indulgence that makes this hot cocoa stand out.
- Dark chocolate, chopped (4 ounces): Use good quality dark chocolate for intense, velvety cocoa flavor.
- Cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): Boosts the chocolate depth and adds a lovely rich color.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the drink perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate notes.
- Large marshmallows (8): The star of the show—these get toasted to golden perfection for that irresistible melty topping.
How to Make Creamy Hot Cocoa with Torched Marshmallows Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Mugs
Start by preheating your kitchen torch or the broiler in your oven if you don’t have a torch. Warming your mugs is optional but highly recommended—it keeps your hot cocoa nice and toasty for longer, so those marshmallows don’t cool down too fast once they’re toasted.
Step 2: Warm the Milk Mixture
Pour the whole milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the ingredients gently over medium heat until everything is melted together and smooth. The slow warming helps the flavors meld, so don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic begins.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
Once your milk mixture is warm and perfectly combined, add the chopped dark chocolate. Whisk constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is glossy without lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract at the end to give the hot cocoa a fragrant, inviting aroma.
Step 4: Pour and Prepare for Toasting
Carefully pour the hot cocoa into your warmed mugs, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top. This step is crucial so you have room for those glorious marshmallows that will soon crown each cup.
Step 5: Toast the Marshmallows
Place two large marshmallows on top of each mug. Using your preheated kitchen torch, toast the marshmallows evenly until they turn golden and bubbly with slightly charred edges. If you don’t have a torch, place the mugs under a broiler for a very short time—watch them closely to prevent burning. This torching transforms the marshmallows into a warm, gooey, caramelized topping that pairs perfectly with the creamy hot cocoa.
Step 6: Optional Garnishes
This is your moment to get creative. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or grate some dark chocolate shavings on top of the toasted marshmallows for extra flavor and a beautiful, inviting presentation that makes sipping even more enjoyable.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Hot and fresh is the only way to go with this Creamy Hot Cocoa with Torched Marshmallows Recipe. Hand your mug over, grab a cozy blanket, and savor every luscious sip with that melty, toasted marshmallow topping. You’ll be hooked!
How to Serve Creamy Hot Cocoa with Torched Marshmallows Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cup by adding garnishes such as a dusting of cinnamon powder, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or some delicate chocolate curls. These accents don’t just add visual appeal but also elevate the flavor profile, highlighting the sweetness and warmth of the cocoa.
Side Dishes
Pair your hot cocoa with something simple yet delightful—think buttery shortbread cookies, cinnamon sugar biscotti, or a slice of rich chocolate cake. These treats complement the creamy cocoa, turning your snack time into a mini celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cocoa in clear glass mugs to showcase its inviting color and the toasted marshmallows on top. For gatherings, line up multiple mugs on a wooden tray with extra marshmallows and cinnamon sticks for stirring. For a whimsical touch, add a candy cane or marshmallow pops for dunking. Presentation makes the experience even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some leftover hot cocoa, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before reheating since the chocolate might settle at the bottom.
Freezing
This creamy hot cocoa can be frozen, but keep in mind the texture might change slightly due to the dairy content. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to one month, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftover cocoa in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the texture silky smooth. Re-toast fresh marshmallows before serving for that signature torched crunch.
FAQs
Can I use milk alternatives for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any milk alternative, but be aware that the texture and creaminess might be slightly different. Adding extra cream or coconut cream may help keep it rich.
What type of chocolate works best?
High-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao content gives the best flavor and richness for this hot cocoa. Avoid overly sweet milk chocolate as it can make the drink too sugary.
How do I torch marshmallows safely if I’m new to using a kitchen torch?
Keep the flame moving steadily over the marshmallow’s surface without holding it in one spot too long to avoid burning. Practice on one marshmallow first and have a bowl of water nearby just in case.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or soy milk and replace heavy cream with coconut cream. Choose vegan chocolate and marshmallows, and you’ll still enjoy a creamy, rich cup of hot cocoa with torched marshmallows.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Definitely! Adjust the sugar amount to your preference or use an unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also balance sweetness by adding a pinch more salt or a drop of espresso for a subtle bitterness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Hot Cocoa with Torched Marshmallows Recipe is not just a drink; it’s a cozy, delicious experience that’s perfect anytime you want to treat yourself or your loved ones. With its rich, comforting flavors and that playful torch-toasted finish, it’s impossible not to smile with the first sip. So grab your ingredients, light up your torch, and dive into the joyful indulgence that only homemade hot cocoa can bring. You won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Hot Cocoa with Torched Marshmallows Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy hot cocoa recipe features rich dark chocolate blended with whole milk and heavy cream, topped with perfectly torched marshmallows for a delightfully indulgent treat. Ideal for cozy evenings, the toasted marshmallows add a golden, bubbly layer that enhances every warm sip.
Ingredients
Hot Cocoa Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Toppings
- 8 large marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat torch or broiler: Prepare your kitchen torch by turning it on or set your oven broiler to high. If you like, warm your mugs to keep the hot cocoa hot longer.
- Combine dairy and dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and warmed through, but not boiling.
- Melt in the chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the warm mixture. Whisk gently until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth and glossy hot cocoa. Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
- Pour hot cocoa into mugs: Carefully ladle or pour the hot cocoa into prepared mugs, leaving space at the top to accommodate the marshmallows.
- Add marshmallows and toast: Place one or two large marshmallows atop each mug. Use your kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows until they become golden brown and bubbly. Alternatively, place the mugs under the oven broiler briefly, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Optional garnish: For an extra special touch, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon or chocolate shavings over the toasted marshmallows.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the hot cocoa right away while it’s warm, and the marshmallow topping is perfectly melty and toasted.
Notes
- Use a gentle heat on the stove; avoid boiling the milk to prevent scalding.
- If you don’t have a kitchen torch, broiling works well but requires close supervision.
- For a dairy-free or vegan alternative, substitute plant-based milk and cream:
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar to taste.
- Stir well to prevent chocolate from sticking and burning on the pan bottom.
