As festive markets across the UK begin to wind down for 2025, the craving for a velvety, indulgent mug of hot chocolate doesn't have to fade. Experts have now revealed the surprisingly simple secret to achieving that luxurious, café-standard drink in your own kitchen, and it hinges on one humble, unusual ingredient.
The Secret to Silky, Thick Hot Chocolate
While instant sachets offer convenience, they often fall short of the decadent texture found at seasonal gatherings and Christmas markets. According to insights from cream canister supplier QuickWhip, the key to transforming your homemade version is cornstarch.
The experts explain that using real dark chocolate is crucial for depth of flavour, but for that signature thick and luxurious mouthfeel, cornstarch is the game-changer. "The corn starch slurry gives your hot chocolate that thick, luxurious texture you'd expect from a high-end Italian café or Christmas market," they reveal. "It's simple, yet transformative."
Unlike other thickeners, cornstarch achieves the desired consistency without adding excessive sweetness, allowing the rich notes of the dark chocolate to shine through.
How to Make Your Own Christmas Market Hot Chocolate
Follow this straightforward method to create a professional-quality treat. You will need: 240ml of milk, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, 100g of chopped dark chocolate, an additional 118ml of chilled milk, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch.
Begin by gently warming the 240ml of milk in a saucepan. Whisk in the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until combined. Next, fold in the chopped dark chocolate, stirring continuously until it has melted completely and the mixture is smooth.
In a separate bowl, create the crucial slurry by mixing the chilled milk with the cornstarch until no lumps remain. Pour this mixture into your saucepan.
Finishing Touches for the Perfect Mug
Keep stirring the combined liquid over a low to medium heat for approximately three to five minutes. You will know it's ready when the mixture has thickened sufficiently to coat the back of a spoon.
Ladle the hot chocolate into your favourite mugs. For the ultimate festive finish, crown each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
With this expert tip, you can enjoy a taste of the Christmas markets long after they've packed up, creating a moment of pure, velvety indulgence without leaving home.
