French-Inspired Hot Chocolate Coffee
French-Inspired Hot Chocolate Coffee is a rich, café-style drink made with real dark chocolate, strong coffee, and warm milk. Thick, velvety, and deeply chocolatey, this cozy French-style beverage tastes luxurious and comforting without being overly sweet.
Prep Time4 minutes mins
Total Time4 minutes mins
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American, French
Keyword: café style hot chocolate, chocolat chaud coffee, coffee chocolate drink, french hot chocolate coffee, french style hot chocolate, hot chocolate coffee recipe, rich hot chocolate drink
Author: Ella
Small saucepan
Whisk
Measuring cups
Spoon
Mug or heat-safe glass
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 oz dark chocolate (60–70%), chopped
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
- 1 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- pinch | salt
Heat the milk gently in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until hot and steamy. Do not boil.
Add chopped dark chocolate to the hot milk and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Pour in the brewed coffee or espresso.
Stir in sugar or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Whisk gently until the drink is silky, glossy, and well combined.
Pour into a mug, add optional toppings, and serve hot.
- Use real dark chocolate for best texture and flavor
- Do not boil milk to avoid grainy texture
- Salt enhances chocolate flavor — don’t skip it
- Strong coffee balances the richness of chocolate
- Oat milk works well for a dairy-free version
- Best enjoyed fresh and hot for maximum richness