Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe
Looking for a warm, cozy treat that tastes like a hug in a mug? This easy Mexican Hot Chocolate is rich, frothy, and full of nostalgic flavor. It’s similar to champurrado, but simpler — no masa harina, no anise, and no piloncillo. Don’t worry though: just because it’s easier to make doesn’t mean it’s any less delicioso.
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 1/4 cups water divided
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 ounces Mexican chocolate
- 4 tablespoons corn starch
- 1 cup milk whole or almond milk
- Kahlua or Peppermint schnapps optional
Instructions
- Bring 8 cups of water with cinnamon sticks to a boil; remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 1 hour.
- Discard cinnamon sticks and return water to medium-low heat. Add Mexican chocolate stir until dissolved.
- In a separate cup, dissolve corn starch in ¼ cup of cold water. Stir to prevent clumps and add to pot, stirring as you pour it in.
- Add the milk and let it come to a slow boil, being careful to turn off heat as soon as it boils. It will thicken a little and will be creamier with whole milk.
Video
Notes
- Froth it up! Use a molinillo or whisk to create that classic espuma (foam) for texture and authenticity.
- Make it party-ready: Easily double or triple the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker or insulated carafe.
- Don’t skip steeping: Letting the canela steep is key for deep, warming flavor.
- Make-ahead tip: You can steep the canela and melt the chocolate in advance. Once melted and smooth, let it cool and store in a covered container (like a mason jar) in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To serve later: Reheat gently on the stove, then stir in the cornstarch slurry and milk. Heat until warm and slightly thickened, stirring often. Froth with a molinillo or whisk before serving for that classic foam on top.
- Got leftovers? Store any extra hot chocolate in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat slowly, stirring well to keep it smooth and creamy.
Nutrition
Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 30mg | Potassium: 108mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 49IU | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 1mg