Description
A cozy, smoky hot chocolate made with pantry staples that costs less than $2 per cup. Toasting marshmallows under the broiler adds a gourmet, campfire flavor to this simple, budget-friendly drink.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon butter (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven broiler to high. Place mini marshmallows in a single layer in an oven-safe bowl or ramekin.
- Toast marshmallows under the broiler for 1-3 minutes, watching closely, until golden brown and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt while the milk is still cold. Whisk to dissolve cocoa and prevent clumps.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles form around the edges and steam rises (about 5 minutes). Do not boil.
- Pour the hot milk over the toasted marshmallows and stir gently until mostly melted.
- Stir in butter if using. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not burn the marshmallows; charred is good, burnt is bitter. Whisk cocoa into cold milk to prevent lumps. Salt enhances chocolate flavor. This recipe does not store well as marshmallows separate; best served fresh. For dairy-free, use oat milk and vegan marshmallows.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 36
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
Keywords: hot chocolate, budget recipe, toasted marshmallows, cozy drink, cheap comfort food, winter drink, one-pot recipe