Salted Caramel and Orange Flavour Drinking Chocolate Recipe
Serves: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
- 1/3 cup (35g) good-quality cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (or zest from 1/2 an orange for natural flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt flakes
- Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Orange zest or chocolate shavings
Instructions
1. Warm the Milk:
- In a medium saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar to ensure there are no lumps.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the warm milk until fully incorporated.
- Add the salted caramel sauce, orange extract (or zest), and sea salt.
4. Simmer and Stir:
- Heat the mixture, whisking continuously, until it is smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Do not let it boil.
5. Adjust Sweetness and Flavor:
- Taste and adjust by adding more salted caramel sauce for sweetness or orange extract for a stronger citrus note.
6. Serve:
- Pour into mugs and top with your favorite garnishes: whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of orange zest and chocolate shavings.
Tips for the Perfect Drinking Chocolate
- Milk Alternatives: For a creamier texture, try using half milk and half heavy cream. Dairy-free alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk work wonderfully too.
- Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce: Melt 1/4 cup sugar in a saucepan until golden, whisk in 2 tablespoons butter, then add 2 tablespoons cream and a pinch of sea salt.
- Extra Decadence: Add a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier (orange) or Baileys, for an adult-friendly version.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dry cocoa-sugar mixture in advance, and store it in an airtight container. Just add milk, salted caramel, and orange extract when ready.
- Texture Boost: Stir in 1–2 squares of dark chocolate at the end for a velvety finish.
This Salted Caramel and Orange Flavour Drinking Chocolate is the ultimate holiday drink—rich, indulgent, and full of festive cheer. Serve it at Christmas gatherings or as a special treat on cold winter nights! 🎄🍊🍫