• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

The Petite Cook™ logo

  • Recipes
  • Italian Recipes
  • Lifestyle
  • Cookbooks
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Cookbooks
  • Lifestyle
  • Travel
  • Press
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • About
    • Cookbooks
    • Lifestyle
    • Travel
    • Press
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Dessert Recipes

    Best Italian Hot Chocolate

    Published: Nov 18, 2024 by Andrea

    Jump to Recipe
    italian hot chocolate in clear glass cup with napkin and chocolate pieces in te background, image for pinterest

    Here's how to make the BEST Italian hot chocolate at home! This thick hot chocolate is ready in 10 minutes with just 5 ingredients!

    Creamy and thick Italian hot chocolate is one of the best and easiest Italian desserts out there.

    Cioccolata calda, as we call it in italy, is a luxuriously rich hot chocolate drink with pudding-like consistency.

    Unlike the usual water-and-cocoa-powder combo, this version is made with milk, high-quality dark chocolate, a touch of sugar, and a little secret ingredient that takes it to the next level—rich, velvety, and perfectly thick.

    This is the most incredible and comforting drink you can have on a cold winter day!

    Italian hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.

    Forget the watery hot chocolate you find in most cafes around the world—this is nothing like that.

    As a true hot chocolate lover, I’ve tried it in many countries, but nothing comes close to the rich, velvety Italian version.

    The absolute best? Hands down, it’s at Caffè Rivoire - Master Chocolatiers, right across from the stunning Piazza della Signoria in Florence.

    But don’t worry if a trip to Florence isn’t in your plans. You can whip up the best Italian hot chocolate recipe at home in just 10 minutes!

    Also, if you ask me, there’s nothing better than dunking a delicious cookie into your hot chocolate.

    Some of my favorite Italian cookies to pair with it are these traditional honey cookies, Italian butter cookies, and these melt-in-your-mouth baci di dama.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • Variations
    • How to make Italian hot chocolate
    • Hot chocolate toppings
    • Storage tips
    • Recipe FAQs
    • Recipe

    Ingredients

    To make this classic Italian hot cocoa recipe, you only need 5 simple ingredients:

    Italian hot chocolate ingredients: cocoa powder, dark chocolate, milk, corn starch, sugar.
    • Milk: I like to use full-fat fresh milk, but feel free to use semi-skimmed milk.
    • Cocoa powder: You can use unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder or natural cocoa, both work well for this recipe.
    • Dark chocolate: use high-quality 55%, 60% or 70% dark chocolate. For a sweeter drink, you can use high-quality milk chocolate instead.
    • Sugar: You can use caster sugar or raw cane sugar.
    • Cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient that will give you deliciously thick hot chocolate. You can substitute it with potato starch or rice flour.

    Cornstarch is totally flavorless, so you won’t even notice it. What you will notice is the amazing thick and creamy texture it gives your hot chocolate.

    Also, cornflour is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the label to be sure if you have any dietary restrictions.

    Variations

    Once you’ve nailed the classic recipe, why not mix it up with a fun twist? Try adding:

    • Sea salt: A pinch of sea salt flakes will make the chocolate flavor pop!
    • Vanilla extract: Add a few drops of vanilla for a warm, sweet aroma.
    • Nutella: Add a tiny spoonful of homemade Nutella for a rich, creamy texture with a nutty twist.
    • Liquor: Add a splash of Baileys, rum, or Grand Marnier for a cozy, grown-up touch.
    • Cinnamon: Just a pinch, for a hint of spice and warmth.
    thick hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.

    How to make Italian hot chocolate

    This Italian hot chocolate recipe couldn't be easier and takes just 10 minutes to prepare.

    Check out the quick recipe overview below with step-by-step pictures.

    Scroll down until the end of the post for the full printable recipe.

    Collage of four images: 1. Whisk cornflour, cocoa, and sugar in a saucepan. 2. Add warm milk. 3. Heat and stir in chopped chocolate. 4. Whisk until smooth and thick.

    STEP 1. Whisk cornflour, cocoa and sugar in a small saucepan.

    STEP 2. Pour the warm milk into the saucepan.

    STEP 3. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, then add in the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips).

    STEP 4. Whisk until reaching a creamy and dense texture.

    Divide it between two cups, top with freshly whipped cream and serve. 

    Hot chocolate toppings

    Here are a few of my favorite hot chocolate toppings to take your cup to the next level:

    • Whipped cream: Light, fluffy, and the perfect creamy contrast to rich chocolate.
    • Extra cocoa powder: A sprinkle on top adds a touch of bitter chocolatey note.
    • Mini marshmallows: Classic and fun, they melt slightly for a sweet, gooey treat.
    • Salted caramel sauce or dulce de leche: Adds a hint of salty buttery sweetness.
    • Crushed toasted hazelnuts: Nutty and crunchy, they pair perfectly with the chocolate.
    Italian hot cocoa topped with whipped cream.

    Storage tips

    Here’s how to store your leftover Italian style hot chocolate:

    • Fridge: Let it cool down completely, then pour it into an airtight container. It’ll stay good for about 3 days in the fridge.
    • Reheat: Reheat it on low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Stir it well to bring back its smooth, creamy texture.
    • Freezer: Want to save it for longer? Freeze hot chocolate in ice cube trays. Just pop a few cubes in a mug, add some milk, and warm it up for a quick treat.

    Recipe FAQs

    Can I make vegan hot chocolate?

    Yes, absolutely!
    For a vegan version, use oat milk or rice milk and follow the same recipe.
    Skip the whipped cream, or replace it with whipped coconut cream for a super indulgent treat.

    What's the best chocolate to use?

    For the best Italian hot chocolate, start with the highest-quality dark chocolate bar or chocolate chips you can find.
    Look for chocolate made with just cocoa mass, cocoa butter, and sugar—some brands add a touch of vanilla, which is fine too.

    More Italian dessert recipes to try

    If you loved this recipe, try other family-favorite winter Italian desserts like apple cake, pear cake, almond cake or the famous zabaglione!

    Did you try this recipe?

    Please let me know how you liked it! Leave a comment below and share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #thepetitecook!

    Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for the latest updates.

    Recipe

    thick italian hot chocolate in a clear mug topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings
    Print SaveSaved!
    4.97 from 31 votes

    Best Italian Hot Chocolate

    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Here's how to make the BEST Italian hot chocolate at home! This thick hot chocolate is ready in 10 minutes with just 5 ingredients!
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time10 minutes mins
    Course: Drinks
    Cuisine: Italian
    Serving: 2
    Calories: 565kcal
    Author: Andrea Soranidis

    Ingredients

    • 5 teaspoon high-quality organic cocoa powder, (20 g)
    • 4 teaspoon cornstarch, (20 g)
    • 4 teaspoon sugar, (25 g)
    • 500 ml milk, warmed, (17.5 fl oz)
    • 120 g 70% dark chocolate, finely chopped, (4 oz)

    To serve:

    • 2 tablespoon fresh whipped cream, (optional)

    Instructions

    • Whisk the cornstarch, cocoa and sugar in a small saucepan.
    • Pour the warm milk into the saucepan.
    • Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking often to avoid lumps.
    • Bring the hot chocolate mixture almost to a light boil, then reduce the heat to low and fold in the chopped dark chocolate. 
    • Whisk the hot chocolate until thick and creamy, adding more sugar if you like it sweeter.
    • Divide the Italian hot chocolate among two cups, top with whipped cream and serve. 

    Video

    Notes

    How to store your leftover Italian  hot chocolate:
    • Fridge: Let it cool down completely, then pour it into an airtight container. It’ll stay good for about 3 days in the fridge.
    • Reheat: Reheat it on low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Stir it well to bring back its smooth, creamy texture.
    • Freezer: Want to save it for longer? Freeze hot chocolate in ice cube trays. Just pop a few cubes in a mug, add some milk, and warm it up for a quick treat.
    Did you try this recipe? Tag @thepetitecook or use the hashtag #thepetitecook - Looking at your pictures makes my day!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 565kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 797mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 405IU | Calcium: 326mg | Iron: 7mg

    The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

    More Dessert Recipes

    • Yuzu cookies with yuzu curd.
      Yuzu Cookies
    • yuzu curd.
      Yuzu Curd (5 Ingredients)
    • lemon cream cookies.
      Lemon Cream Cookies
    • chocolate ricotta cheesecake.
      Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake
    50644 shares
    • Facebook
    • X
    • WhatsApp

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Angela says

      June 13, 2023 at 8:55 pm

      5 stars
      This is delicioso. Reminiscent of the ones I had when traveling in Italy. Only change was subbing half light cream for half the milk and adding to the saucepan cold as you usually do when using cornstarch as a thickener.
      Recipe is a keeper. Also was 4 servings for us.

      Reply
    2. Lisa Rao says

      November 21, 2021 at 11:22 pm

      5 stars
      This is similar to my grandmother's hot chocolate that we make every Christmas Eve as a special treat. However you do NOT need cornstarch as the recipe states, we never do. Just up the powdered chocolate and trust me, it will be fine. The longer you cook it, the thicker it gets. We also add a little anisette which we love, but that's up to you! Enjoy!!!

      Reply
    3. Mia Sangster says

      June 12, 2020 at 10:46 pm

      5 stars
      patiently following the directions of this recipe will assure you of the best cup of hot chocolate you can possibly get. Made well, this Hot chocolate is beyond luxurious,beyond a treat...it is simply an experience....a very impressive one.As ive written, its well worth mastering the instructions & starting off small before making larger quantities. we have found it worth every calorie bc of that experience that it is. Drinking this does make it impossible to ever really enjoy simple "pre mixed" drinking chocolate ever again though....& thats our ONLY warning:) God bless you for this recipe - ty

      Reply
    4. Lam Smith says

      January 30, 2020 at 10:20 am

      5 stars
      Being a chocoholic, I must try this recipe in this weekend.

      Reply
    5. Healthy Kitchen says

      December 25, 2018 at 3:46 am

      5 stars
      hmmm, did it for me and my bf and it was amazing, we both liked it a lot!! Definitely become my fav for these chilly days! - Natalie

      Reply
    6. Marina says

      December 18, 2018 at 10:21 am

      5 stars
      I make this recipe for my nieces every weekend, they love it!

      Reply
    7. Jessica Formicola says

      August 13, 2018 at 5:44 pm

      5 stars
      The perfect comforting drink for cold weather!

      Reply
    8. Marlynn | Urban Bliss Life says

      August 13, 2018 at 5:23 pm

      5 stars
      My daughter LOVES hot chocolate and this looks like one she -and I- would really enjoy!

      Reply
    9. Kelly Anthony says

      August 13, 2018 at 4:47 pm

      This looks crazy delicious! I am a chocolate LOVER!

      Reply
    10. Danielle says

      August 13, 2018 at 5:18 pm

      5 stars
      That looks like the perfect hot chocolate. I can't wait for the cold weather to enjoy it!

      Reply
    11. Jenni says

      August 13, 2018 at 5:06 pm

      5 stars
      Cornstarch is a clever way to thicken this up! I bet it makes it even more indulgent!

      Reply
    12. Carolyn says

      January 20, 2018 at 12:09 am

      5 stars
      This looks incredible!

      Reply
    13. Morganna Sousa Rocha says

      October 16, 2016 at 11:52 pm

      5 stars
      that is it! I am gonna have to make!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        October 25, 2016 at 9:39 am

        I don't mean to be bossy, but you definitely must give this a try 🙂

        Reply
    14. Lauren @ Lauren Caris Cooks says

      December 10, 2015 at 2:20 pm

      This looks almost TOO good! I was just in Ticino in the South of Switzerland and had one of these. It is to die for. I will definitely be trying out your homemade version!

      Reply
    15. Little Italian says

      December 06, 2015 at 10:57 pm

      5 stars
      OMG! I could never resist an Italian hot chocolate. I grew up with it and whenever I go to Italy I must have it, at least during the winter months (usually it is replaced by ice cream during the summer).
      You recipe and photos are fantastic!

      Reply
    16. price says

      December 03, 2015 at 4:12 pm

      If you make it dry, in a jar, for a gift. What is the milk to powder ratio?!

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        December 03, 2015 at 6:31 pm

        It really depends on the milk powder you're using, as some give a more dense result than others.I believe there's should be a conversion chart on the package, but in general, you can use this helpful conversion chart: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/6685099419540053/

        Reply
    17. Andrea @ Made With Pink says

      December 03, 2015 at 12:44 am

      I've never had Italian Hot Chocolate before. This looks so delicious! I'd like to make it for our Christmas party, spiked with some Baileys. Gorgeous photos as well.

      Reply
      • Andrea says

        December 03, 2015 at 1:28 am

        AH!Baileys! Haven't thought of it before, I'll make sure to add some of my homemade baileys next time, thanks for the GREAT idea *_*! And you NEED to try this chocolate, it's absolutely irresistible!

        Reply
    4.97 from 31 votes (17 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    About Andrea

    Andrea Soranidis, founder of The Petite Cook.


    Welcome to my kitchen!
    I’m Andrea, I'm Italian, and I absolutely LOVE cooking.
    Grab a fork and join me!
    READ MORE ABOUT ME…

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Follow us

    • facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    The Petite Cook™

    Italian Recipes Anyone Can Cook


    About Andrea

    Privacy Policy

    Work with us

    Terms

    Press

    Nutrition Disclaimer

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 The Petite Cook. The Petite Cook® is a registered trademark.

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.