Hot Chocolate and Homemade Marshmallow

Everyone loves a warm and cozy drink, especially on chilly days. Hot chocolate is a classic treat that brings joy to many. With a rich chocolate flavor and a creamy texture, hot chocolate warms you from the inside out. Making it at home is simple and fun. Plus, when you pair it with homemade marshmallows, you elevate this drink to another level. These fluffy, sweet marshmallows floating atop your hot chocolate make for a delightful experience.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This hot chocolate recipe is more than just a warm drink; it’s an experience. First, it is easy to follow and uses common ingredients. You don’t need fancy tools or a lot of time. Second, the flavor is outstanding. The chocolate melts perfectly into the milk, giving you that creamy richness everyone craves.

The homemade marshmallows add a special touch. They are soft, pillowy, and incredibly sweet, making your hot chocolate feel like a treat from a café. Instead of store-bought, you can enjoy marshmallows that are fresh and full of flavor. Third, making hot chocolate with marshmallows is perfect for gatherings, family nights, or simply a cozy day at home. It warms your heart and soul, making cold days so much better.

HOW TO MAKE Hot Chocolate and Homemade Marshmallow

Making this hot chocolate and marshmallow combo is simple. You start with the marshmallows since they need some time to set. After that, you can whip up the hot chocolate in no time. Follow along with the steps below, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make hot chocolate and homemade marshmallows, you will need some basic kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9 inch) pan for the marshmallows
• Whisk
• Plastic wrap
• Knife for cutting marshmallows

 

 

 

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 liter (4 cups) milk
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract
• 170 g (6 oz) good quality semi-sweet or milk chocolate
• 315 g (1 1/2 cups) sugar
• 75 ml (1/3 cup) hot water
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract
• 25 ml (5 teaspoons) gelatin
• 125 ml (1/2 cup) cold water
• 25 g (3 tablespoons) icing sugar
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon) cornstarch

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

For the Marshmallow:

1. Line a 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9 inch) pan with plastic wrap and lightly oil it. This will help you easily remove the marshmallows later.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, hot water, and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract. Mix until the sugar is dissolved.
3. In another bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water. Allow it to swell for about 5 minutes.
4. Once the gelatin has swelled, heat it until it is dissolved. You can do this by warming it gently over low heat.
5. Add the dissolved gelatin to the sugar mixture.
6. Beat the combined mixture with an electric mixer for about 10 minutes. The mixture should turn white and fluffy, resembling soft meringue.
7. Pour the fluffy mixture into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly, and let it set overnight at room temperature.
8. The next day, mix the icing sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. Sprinkle this mix on a clean work surface.
9. Unmold the marshmallow by pulling it out of the pan. Cut it into cubes using a sharp knife.
10. Roll the cubes in the icing sugar and cornstarch mixture to prevent sticking.
11. Store the marshmallow cubes in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

For the Hot Chocolate:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract over medium heat.
2. Remove the saucepan from heat once the milk is hot but not boiling.
3. Add the chocolate pieces to the hot milk and let them rest for about 2 minutes. This allows the chocolate to soften.
4. Whisk the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and combined with the milk.
5. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust sweetness if needed.
6. Serve the hot chocolate in cups and add marshmallow cubes on top.

HOW TO SERVE Hot Chocolate and Homemade Marshmallow

Serve hot chocolate in your favorite mugs. Top each mug with a generous amount of the homemade marshmallow cubes. For an extra treat, you can add whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top. Pair this delightful drink with cookies or snacks for a cozy gathering or a movie night at home.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Hot Chocolate and Homemade Marshmallow

Homemade marshmallows will stay good when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid placing them in the fridge, as this can make them hard. If you have leftover hot chocolate, store it in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in a saucepan or the microwave before serving. Freezing hot chocolate is not recommended, but you can freeze the marshmallows if you want to keep them longer. Just place them in a sealed freezer bag.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Hot chocolate with marshmallows can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a warming spice.
• Drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate syrup over the marshmallows for added sweetness.
• Pair with seasonal cookies or biscotti for a special treat.
• Try adding a dash of peppermint extract to the hot chocolate for a refreshing twist. This can make a great holiday drink!

VARIATIONS

While this hot chocolate and marshmallow recipe is perfect as it is, you can create fun variations:

• Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Nutty Flavor: Use almond milk or hazelnut chocolate instead of regular chocolate for a nutty twist.
• Vegan Version: Use almond milk or oat milk and vegan chocolate to make it dairy-free.
• Flavored Marshmallows: Add peppermint or orange extract to the marshmallows for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate or even white chocolate. Each will give a different flavor to your hot chocolate.

2. How long do homemade marshmallows last?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

3. Can I make the marshmallows ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the marshmallows a day or two before you plan to serve the hot chocolate.

4. Can I use milk alternatives for the hot chocolate?

Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk to make the hot chocolate drink.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Hot Chocolate and Homemade Marshmallow

To save time, you can make the marshmallows the day before you plan to serve the hot chocolate. This way, they will be ready to use when you make your drink. You can also prepare the hot chocolate base ahead of time. Reheat it gently before serving, adding the marshmallows right before you pour it into cups. This makes it easy and stress-free, especially when you have guests coming over.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate topped with fluffy homemade marshmallows any time you wish. Enjoy your cozy drink!

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