Hot Chocolate Recipe: Chestnut Praline Hot Chocolate, A Luxurious Winter Indulgence

When the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a cosy cup of hot chocolate to warm you up. But why settle for ordinary when you can enjoy something truly special? This Chestnut Praline Hot Chocolate brings together the richness of Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes and the sweet, nutty flavours of chestnut and praline. It’s a luxurious drink that feels like a dessert in a mug, perfect for winter evenings or festive celebrations.

Chestnuts are synonymous with winter, evoking images of roasted chestnuts over an open fire, while praline adds a sweet, caramelised nutty flavour that makes this hot chocolate irresistibly indulgent. When combined with the deep cocoa notes of Rococo’s hot chocolate flakes, these flavours create a sophisticated, warming drink that’s perfect for the season.

Chestnut Praline Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients:

• 250ml milk (whole milk or your preferred non-dairy option, like oat milk)
• 3 tablespoons Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes
• 2 tablespoons chestnut purée (or sweetened chestnut spread for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon praline paste (or crushed praline pieces for texture)
• 1 tablespoon sugar or sweetener (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Crushed praline (for garnish)
• Grated chocolate (for garnish)

Method:

1. Warm the milk: In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling.
2. Add the chocolate flakes: Whisk in Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes, stirring continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
3. Incorporate the chestnut purée: Stir in the chestnut purée (or sweetened chestnut spread), whisking until it’s fully combined with the chocolate mixture. The chestnut adds a lovely creamy, nutty flavour.
4. Add the praline: Stir in the praline paste or crushed praline pieces, whisking until incorporated. Taste the hot chocolate and add sugar if needed.
5. Serve: Pour the chestnut praline hot chocolate into a mug, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with crushed praline and grated chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Customisations and Tips:

• Non-Dairy Option: Oat milk adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the chestnut and praline flavours.
• Extra Nutty: For a stronger praline flavour, add a little extra praline paste or sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or pecans on top.
• Chestnut Boost: For even more chestnut flavour, use sweetened chestnut spread and reduce or eliminate the sugar for a perfectly balanced sweetness.

This Chestnut Praline Hot Chocolate is more than just a drink – it’s an experience. The rich dark chocolate, creamy chestnut, and sweet praline combine to create a warming and luxurious treat that’s perfect for winter. Whether you’re indulging on a cold evening or serving it as a festive drink for guests, this hot chocolate is sure to impress.