Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

Mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows and caramel sauce on top.

Salted caramel hot chocolate is a rich and delicious twist on the classic winter beverage. This recipe is made on the stovetop in minutes and includes a simple homemade caramel sauce.

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings or more drinks

Author Heather

Ingredients

Hot chocolate

½ cup (106 g) brown sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ teaspoon salt
3 ¾ cups (850 g) milk divided
4 ounces (170 g) semi-sweet baking chocolate coarsely chopped
1 cup mini marshmallows optional

Instructions

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 chopped chocolate to the saucepan of caramel. Whisk to incorporate, and continue stirring until chocolate has melted. Tiny bits of chocolate may be visible in your hot chocolate - this is normal.
Warm for another 1-2 minutes, or until hot chocolate is heated to your liking. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

Can I use chocolate chips? Yes, chopped chocolate can be substituted with chocolate chips if desired.
To make dairy-free: Use your favorite dairy-free milk, like almond milk or oat milk, and check the ingredients of your baking chocolate to ensure it's dairy-free (several Baker's brand baking chocolates are made without dairy).
Storage: Leftover hot chocolate will keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator and can be warmed on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in individual mugs. Give your cocoa a stir to reincorporate any separated chocolate.

Nutrition