AS temperatures drop, there’s nothing better than a rich, creamy cup of hot chocolate to warm you up.
So treat yourself to a mug of pure indulgence at home with these budget tips and hacks.
Treat yourself to a mug of pure indulgence at home with these budget tips and hacks
TOOL UP: The Velvetiser from Hotel Chocolat promises barista-grade hot chocolate by warming your milk and blending chocolate flakes at the touch of a button — but at just under £100, it’s not cheap.
The Dualit milk frother, £54.90 at John Lewis, is almost half the price and does the same job.
Start with your milk and then a minute or so into the programme add the chocolate.
Or Aldi’s Ambiano milk frother and steamer, £19.99, is one of the cheapest options on the market.
Like the Dualit, it also froths cold milk so can be used for iced coffees too.
WHIP UP A TREAT: To create the perfect hot chocolate without a machine, food blogger Gemma Sokol recommends heating milk very slowly on the stove or hob while adding chocolate.
She says: “This may take more time but ensures a better result as the milk will burn if heated too quickly. Keep mixing your chocolate to make sure it’s distributed evenly while melting.”
SWEET SURPRISE: Using pure chocolate can create a richer and silkier hot drink than powder.
Gemma says shave or grate chocolate before adding to milk so that it melts easier.
Luxury hot chocolate specialists Knoops sell a range of flakes from £9.95. Get ten per cent off your first order by signing up for the newsletter.
Or Tesco Finest Belgian Hot Chocolate Flakes, £2.50, are a more wallet-friendly option.
You could even experiment with your favourite chocolate bar. Try grating Green & Blacks white chocolate for a yummy twist.
Gemma also says adding spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg or ginger, will give your hot chocolate a festive flavour.
- Find more of Gemma’s tips and recipes on Instagram at @gemtakesfoodpics and her website gemtakesfoodpics.com.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability
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