Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate is a rich and sweet hot beverage that's perfect for winter weather. Homemade caramel sauce is blended with chocolate chips and milk, then topped with homemade whipped cream.This recipe makes four large mugs, or six smaller servings, of hot chocolate.
In a saucepan over medium heat, add brown sugar, butter, salt, and ¼ cup of milk. Stir until ingredients have melted and incorporated. Bring to a simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until caramel has thickened slightly.
Optionally, reserve 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce to use as a topping.
Add remaining milk and chocolate chips to the saucepan of caramel. Whisk to incorporate, and continue stirring until chocolate has melted. Tiny bits of chocolate will be visible in your hot chocolate.
Warm for another 1-2 minutes, or until hot chocolate is heated to your liking. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Whipped Cream (optional)
In a bowl, add cold heavy cream and confectioner's sugar. Whip for 1-2 minutes or until stiff peaks form. Add a dollop on top of each mug of hot chocolate just before serving.
Optionally, top your hot chocolate with chocolate shavings, sea salt, and reserved caramel.
Notes
This recipe will make four large servings (think big coffee mugs), or six smaller servings.
If omitting whipped cream topping, subtract 114 calories from each serving of hot chocolate.
Using chocolate chips in hot chocolate will leave beautiful flecks of chocolate throughout your drink. Some will rise to the top as it sits, giving an ombre effect to your drink.