Name: Dipping Hot Chocolate for One
Total time: PLACEHOLDER
Ingredients: 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons sugar

Why This Recipe Works

We were inspired by thick, creamy European-style hot dipping chocolates (known in Italy as cioccolata calda and in Spain as chocolate a la taza) meant for dunking fruit, cookies, pretzel rods, and churros. Unlike a super-rich, butter-charged fudge sauce that is better enjoyed in smaller doses, this almost pudding-like treat is just decadent enough. We tested our way through versions made from melted dark, milk, and white chocolates, but found too much variability depending on brands and styles. For a basic recipe that worked every time and that lent itself to endless improvisation, we opted for a simple combination of cocoa powder, sugar, and cream. This luscious dessert is also the perfect base, when thinned with milk, for a simple and comforting mug of drinkable hot chocolate.

Before You Begin

This recipe is from Cooking for One, which includes more than 160 perfectly-portioned recipes for the solo diner.

Instructions

Stir all ingredients together in small bowl until evenly combined. Microwave at 50 percent power for 30 seconds, then whisk until few lumps remain. Microwave at 50 percent power for 30 seconds longer, then whisk until smooth. Serve.