Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (475 ml) whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
  • 4 ounces (115 g) dark chocolate, finely chopped (at least 70% cocoa)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) orange zest, finely grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of caster sugar or any type of sweetener
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Orange zest (optional)
  • Chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Be careful not to scald it!
  2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a minute to soften, then whisk until smooth and completely melted.
  3. Whisk in the heavy cream (if using), orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, salt, and sugar.
  4. Place the saucepan back over low heat and gently warm the hot chocolate, stirring constantly, until heated through. Avoid boiling.
  5. Pour the orange hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, orange zest, and chocolate shavings, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!