Colonial Hot Chocolate
A rich and spiced colonial-style hot chocolate made with dark chocolate, warming spices, and creamy milk. Infused with star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg, this drink is comforting, indulgent, and perfect for cold days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Colonial American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
2 whole star anise
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground cardamom
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
5 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
1 strip orange rind (optional)
Pinch of red chili powder (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the milk into a saucepan and add the star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, salt, and orange rind if using.
- Heat over medium-low until steaming but not boiling. Let the spices infuse for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the star anise and orange rind.
- Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
- If desired, whisk in a pinch of red chili powder for gentle heat.
- Whisk until frothy, then pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Notes
For a creamier version, replace half the milk with heavy cream.
Use oat or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
Top with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra indulgence.
Dark chocolate around 60–70% cacao works best.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/colonial-hot-chocolate/
