Italian Sipping Chocolate

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you all! Years ago, when my mom and I had our Italian cafe, one of the things that we had (and I loved beyond words…and was second in line to gelato for being worth not making a pay check) was an Italian sipping chocolate machine. This chrome Italian beauty sat on the counter, happily stirring and keeping ready, this delightful dark chocolate drink. Knowing that it was within arms reach was always a comforting feeling for this chocoholic. Now I can have it again, and share the deliciousness with you too!

If you have never tasted a sipping chocolate such as this, then you are in for a indulgent treat! It is not like the classic American version of hot chocolate which is light and milky, and usually made with more sugar than chocolate. Italian sipping chocolate is creamier and thicker and much more indulgent, and for me, it is more of a dessert then just a cup of hot chocolate. One taste you will understand.

This recipe may take slightly more work then just opening the spout of the sipping machine, but it is still very easy to prepare. And it will make any day or date a deliciously perfect one! So, make, share and enjoy! And make sure you scroll all the way to the bottom for a bonus recipe!

Italian Sipping Chocolate -

serves 2 - 4

1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream plus more for whipped cream if desired
4 oz good quality dark chocolate, at least 70%
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
3 Tbsp bittersweet cocoa powder
1/4 tsp cornstarch
Whipped cream or additional heavy cream and powdered sugar to make your own *

Place milk, heavy cream and chocolate in a small saucepan over low or medium low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk in one direction until chocolate is melted and incorporated into the milk and cream.
Sift and mix the cocoa powder and cornstarch together and then add slowly to the chocolate milk mixtures, stirring constantly in one direction.
Continue stirring until mixture thickens slightly and just starts to bubble, do not let boil.
Remove from the heat and pour into heat proof glasses. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkling of shaved chocolate or cocoa powder and serve hot.

* For home made whipped cream - Add 1 tbsp powdered sugar to 1/2 cup heavy cream. If desired you can add a 1/2 tsp vanilla extract as well. Whip together with a hand or stand mixer until medium peaks form.

Bonus happy accident recipe

When I was doing some test runs on this recipe I ended up making the most delicious pudding instead of sipping chocolate. I simply added a little more cornstarch then the above recipe. I was surprised at how different the outcome was by such a small amount, but I think it was meant to be. I love chocolate pudding and have had it on my mind lately. It was my plan in the near future to try out some recipes and find a good one. Looks like it found me first :)

Dark Chocolate Pudding

Follow everything above exactly as written but increase the cornstarch to 1 tsp. Pour into dishes and chill for at least 2 hours. Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings or cocoa powder before serving.