Hot Chocolate Recipe: Salted Caramel and Apple Hot Chocolate

Sep 22, 2024

Autumn is the season of cosy jumpers, crunchy leaves, and all things warm and indulgent. What better way to embrace those autumnal vibes than with a mug of decadent hot chocolate? But not just any hot chocolate – we're talking Salted Caramel and Apple Hot Chocolate, a delightful twist on the classic that combines the rich, smooth flavour of Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes with the comforting sweetness of apple and the irresistible allure of salted caramel.

Whether you’re snuggled up by the fire or looking to impress guests with a unique seasonal treat, this recipe will bring all the best flavours of autumn into one cosy cup. Let’s dive in!

Why Salted Caramel and Apple?

There’s something magical about the combination of caramel and apples – the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, with just a hint of salt to bring everything together. By pairing these two autumn favourites with Rococo’s luxurious 62% hot chocolate flakes, we’ve created a drink that’s equal parts comforting, rich, and indulgent. The tartness of the apple complements the deep cocoa notes, while the salted caramel adds a silky sweetness that takes this hot chocolate to the next level.

Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, here’s how to make this delicious autumnal treat.

Salted Caramel and Apple Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients:

250ml milk (whole milk for a richer texture, or oat milk for a creamy non-dairy option)
3 tablespoons Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes
50ml apple juice or cider (choose a good-quality, fresh juice for the best flavour)
2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Extra salted caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Thin apple slices (for garnish)

Method:

Warm the milk: In a small saucepan, gently heat your milk of choice over medium heat until it’s warm, but not boiling.
Add the chocolate flakes: Whisk in Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes, stirring continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Incorporate the apple: Pour in the apple juice or cider, and whisk until it’s fully combined with the chocolate mixture. The apple juice will add a subtle tartness that beautifully balances the richness of the chocolate.
Stir in the salted caramel: Add 2 tablespoons of salted caramel sauce to the hot chocolate, whisking until it melts into the drink and adds a velvety sweetness. Taste and adjust the caramel to your liking.
Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug, top with whipped cream if desired, and drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce. For an extra festive touch, garnish with thin slices of apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

The Perfect Pairing for an Autumn Day

There’s something about sipping on this rich, salted caramel and apple-infused hot chocolate that feels like the essence of autumn in a cup. It’s sweet and salty, rich and tart – a combination of flavours that feels familiar yet excitingly different from your usual hot chocolate. Plus, using Rococo’s 62% hot chocolate flakes ensures that every sip is packed with the highest quality cocoa, creating a luxurious and decadent experience.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself after a long autumn walk or want to impress friends with a unique seasonal drink, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver comfort and indulgence.

A Few Tips for Customising Your Drink:

Dairy-Free Delight: For those who prefer non-dairy options, oat milk is the perfect choice for its creamy texture and neutral flavour. You can also use almond or coconut milk if you prefer something with a more distinct taste.
Extra Apple Flavour: If you’re a true apple lover, add a little extra apple juice or even a splash of apple brandy for an adult twist!
Caramel Overload: If you can’t get enough caramel, feel free to add an extra tablespoon to the mix or drizzle even more over your whipped cream topping.