Test Kitchens Favorite Hot Chocolate Food

TEST KITCHEN'S FAVORITE HOT CHOCOLATE

Steps:

• In a saucepan, combine milk, chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Heat over medium, whisking frequently, until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth. Cover to keep warm.
• Whisk cream to soft peaks in a bowl. Divide hot chocolate between two mugs, dollop each with whipped cream, and serve immediately.

CLASSIC HOT CHOCOLATE

Steps:

• Combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the sugar and cocoa powder dissolve and the milk is steaming; do not boil.
• Whisk in half of the chopped chocolate until melted, then whisk in the remaining chocolate until smooth. Remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla. Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or whipped cream.

FAVORITE HOT CHOCOLATE

Steps:

• Place milk and cocoa in a large saucepan; cook and stir over medium heat until blended. Gradually stir in water; heat through, stirring occasionally., Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Add toppings as desired.

HOT CHOCOLATE CONCENTRATE FROM AMERICA'S TEST KITCHEN

Steps:

• Combine all ingredients in a large microwavable bowl.
• Microwave for about two minutes, stirring at 30 second intervals until melted and smooth. (Time will depend on your microwave wattage). Watch carefully and do not scorch.
• Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for two hours.
• When chocolate mixture is firm, scoop into balls using a small sized cookie scoop (1 tablespoons). Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then store in a zip lock bag in the refrigerator for up to five days, or in the freezer for two months.
• To make hot chocolate: Place three scoops (3 tablespoons) into a large mug, top with 1 cup milk, (any kind) and microwave until hot, about two minutes. Stir at 30 second intervals until melted and hot. (Time will depend upon your microwave wattage). Garnish with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.

BEST CHOCOLATE PUDDING (AMERICA'S TEST KITCHENS)

Steps:

• Mix vanilla and espresso powder in a very small bowl.
• In a large saucepan, whisk sugar, cocoa, cornstarch and salt until combined.
• Whisk in heavy cream, egg yolks and whole milk over medium to medium-high heat. Bring to a strong SIMMER (should take five minutes) and let simmer for 30 seconds.
• Add in butter, one tablespoon at a time, and finely chopped chocolate.
• Stir in vanilla/espresso and incorporate.
• Strain through a mesh strainer, into individual ramekins or bowls, or into a large bowl.
• Cover surface with wax paper or parchment sprayed with Pam to prevent a skin from forming on the top of the pudding.
• Chill for at least four hours.
• Whisk pudding before serving.