Hot Chocolate

8 servings Prep: 5 m Cook: 10 m Total: 15 m Beginner
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This hot chocolate is one of the things I looked forward to most during the holiday season. Cold weather outside and delicious hot chocolate inside made with cocoa powder, evaporated milk, and sugar. The recipe is quick and easy to make, with little preparation. This is a great recipe to use with your trusty Magnalite pot, or if making for a party, you can use a slow cooker to keep it warm. Add a splash of peppermint extract for a little extra holiday flavor.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 2 heaping tbsp of cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 (8oz) can evaporated milk
  • 1/2 gallon milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a 2qt or larger pot over medium heat, stir together cocoa powder, sugar and can of evaporated milk until hot, but not boiling.
  2. Add up to a 1/2 gallon of milk, continue stirring.
  3. Heat milk until hot, but not boiling. Remove from heat and serve in mugs when at desired temperature.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my hot chocolate grainy or lumpy?

A: Make sure to stir the cocoa powder, sugar, and evaporated milk together constantly over medium heat until fully dissolved and smooth before adding the regular milk. The cocoa needs to be fully incorporated into the liquid base first.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can make it ahead and keep it warm in a slow cooker on low for parties. Just stir occasionally and don't let it boil, as that can cause the milk to develop a skin or scorch.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t let the mixture boil - keep it just below boiling for the smoothest, creamiest texture. If you’re using a slow cooker to keep it warm for a party, heat it on the stovetop first, then transfer to the slow cooker on low to maintain temperature.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • evaporated milk: heavy cream or half-and-half
  • cocoa powder: hot cocoa mix
  • whole milk: 2% or skim milk

Equipment Needed

  • 2-quart or larger pot
  • wooden spoon or whisk
  • slow cooker (optional, for keeping warm)

Historical Context

While hot chocolate isn’t uniquely Cajun or Creole, this simple scratch-made version reflects the Louisiana tradition of making things from scratch with pantry staples rather than relying on store-bought mixes. Families across South Louisiana have been making versions of this for holiday gatherings and cold winter evenings.