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Light & Cozy Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa

light and cozy salted caramel hot cocoa - featured image
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A quick and easy homemade hot cocoa with a light salted caramel sauce, perfect for cozy nights. This recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together in about 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt (plus more for finishing)
  • 2 cups milk (oat milk or 2% dairy recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Light whipped cream or Greek yogurt (for topping)
  • Flaky sea salt (for topping)
  • Extra caramel sauce (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Make the light caramel sauce first. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and maple syrup. Stir constantly with a whisk until combined and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
  2. Slowly pour in the 1/4 cup of milk while whisking. Add the vanilla and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk until smooth, then remove from heat. Set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder and the 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (if using). Add about 2 tablespoons of the milk and whisk into a paste.
  4. Pour in the remaining milk and whisk until smooth. Place over medium heat and warm, whisking occasionally, until steaming but not boiling, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  5. Remove the cocoa from heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of the caramel sauce and the 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla. Whisk until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust as desired.
  6. Divide the cocoa between two mugs. Top with whipped cream or Greek yogurt, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and drizzle with extra caramel if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use oat milk and plant-based butter. The caramel sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the caramel becomes grainy, add a splash of milk and whisk over low heat until smooth.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel hot cocoa, easy hot cocoa recipe, light hot cocoa, homemade caramel sauce, cozy drink

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/light-and-cozy-salted-caramel-hot-cocoa-best-easy-recipe/