Winter Market Cocoa Burst (Print Version)

Rich, spiced hot chocolate with orange zest for cozy, gluten-free indulgence this winter.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dairy & Alternatives

01 - 4 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream

→ Chocolate & Sweeteners

03 - 3.5 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
04 - 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, certified gluten-free
05 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar, adjust to taste

→ Spices & Flavors

06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
09 - Zest of 1 orange
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
11 - Pinch of sea salt

→ Garnishes (optional)

12 - Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream
13 - Grated dark chocolate
14 - Additional orange zest
15 - Gluten-free mini marshmallows

# Step-by-step Instructions:

01 - Combine whole milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
02 - Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, orange zest, and sea salt until fully dissolved and smooth.
03 - Add chopped dark chocolate and stir continuously until melted and mixture becomes creamy and homogeneous.
04 - Remove from heat and blend in vanilla extract.
05 - Pour into mugs and optionally top with whipped cream, grated chocolate, additional orange zest, or gluten-free marshmallows. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This hot chocolate feels like a secret treat you only share with your closest friends because it’s that comforting and indulgent
  • The hint of orange zest brings a surprising brightness that made it an instant favorite during cold winter nights
02 -
  • Don’t rush heating the milk; too hot can scorch the dairy and ruin that creamy texture you’re after
  • Freshly grated orange zest changed everything for me—it lifts the entire drink to a new level of brightness and complexity
03 -
  • Use a microplane to zest the orange finely for the best texture and aroma
  • Constant stirring while melting the chocolate ensures a glossy finish without any graininess

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