Dark Hot Chocolate with Vanilla Whipped Cream
There’s nothing like a rich and frothy mug of steaming hot chocolate to warm you right down to the bones. This version is sinfully rich and chocolatey, and the whipped cream takes it to a whole new level of irresistible decadence. After a busy day, relax and reward yourself with a mug of pure indulgence.

For the vanilla whipped cream:
- 1 cup (250 ml) 35% whipping cream 1 cup (250 ml) 35% whipping cream
- 2 tbsp (28 g) Redpath® Dark Brown Sugar, packed 2 tbsp (28 g) Redpath® Dark Brown Sugar, packed
- 1-2 tbsp (15-30 ml) pure vanilla extract (to taste) 1-2 tbsp (15-30 ml) pure vanilla extract (to taste)
For the dark hot chocolate:
- 5 cups (1250 ml) 3.25% milk 5 cups (1250 ml) 3.25% milk
- ⅔ cup (70 g) dark cocoa powder ⅔ cup (70 g) dark cocoa powder
- ¼ cup (54 g) Redpath® Dark Brown Sugar, packed ¼ cup (54 g) Redpath® Dark Brown Sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp (20 g) cornstarch 2 tbsp (20 g) cornstarch
- ½ tsp (2 g) salt ½ tsp (2 g) salt
Garnish (optional):
- Redpath Simply Raw™ Turbinado Sugar Redpath Simply Raw™ Turbinado Sugar
Instructions
For the vanilla whipped cream:
Place whipping cream, Redpath® Dark Brown Sugar, and pure vanilla extract in a medium bowl.
Whip, using a hand mixer, until stiff peaks form. Pipe or dollop onto hot chocolate.
For the dark hot chocolate:
Pour the whole milk in a small pot and bring to a light simmer over medium-low heat.
Whisk together dark cocoa, the Redpath® Dark Brown Sugar, cornstarch and salt.
Carefully whisk dry mixture into simmering milk until well blended. Bring back to a simmer and cook while stirring for one minute, or until slightly thickened.
Top hot chocolate with vanilla whipped cream. Sprinkle whipped cream with the Redpath Simply Raw™ Turbinado Sugar, if desired.
Chef's Tip
*For an extra special treat add 2 tbsps (30 ml) bourbon to the hot chocolate.
*The cornstarch in this recipe thickens the hot chocolate slightly, giving it a smooth and rich texture.
*For an extra indulgent treat use half and half cream instead on 3.25% milk.