Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Godiva Cafe blends rich, velvety dark chocolate with creamy steamed milk, infused with a touch of buttery salted caramel and topped with fluffy whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce, offering a warm, indulgent treat with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Heat-resistant pitcher or jug
- Spoon
- Milk frother or steam wand
- Mug or cup
- Ladle (optional, for pouring)
- Grater (optional, for chocolate garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content enhances the richness and depth of your Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate. Whole milk is recommended for its creamy texture, but you can substitute with any milk of your choice to suit your preference. The salted caramel sauce adds the essential balance of sweet and salty flavors, so be sure to use a good-quality or homemade caramel for authentic taste. Adjust the sea salt carefully to avoid overpowering the sweetness. Your copycat Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Godiva Cafe will capture the signature luxurious, velvety blend of chocolate and caramel that defines the cafe's popular menu item.
Instructions
- Pour whole milk into a saucepan and heat over medium-low until steaming, not boiling.
- Add dark chocolate, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and sea salt to the milk.
- Whisk constantly until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth.
- Stir in salted caramel sauce and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until fully combined.
- Remove from heat.
- Use a milk frother or steam wand to froth the mixture, if desired.
- Pour the hot chocolate into a mug or cup.
- Top with whipped cream.
- Drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the whipped cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.
Substitution
The Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Godiva Cafe copycat recipe can easily be adapted if you don't have dark chocolate on hand; semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips make a delicious alternative. You can substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor profile. If you don't have a milk frother or steam wand, gently heating the milk in a saucepan while whisking vigorously will create enough froth for a satisfying texture. When salted caramel sauce is unavailable, a mixture of caramel syrup with a small pinch of sea salt can work as an effective replacement to maintain the sweet and salty balance. Your homemade version will still be indulgent and rich, allowing you to customize sweetness and saltiness to your personal preference.
Tips
Ensure the milk is heated gently over medium-low heat to prevent scorching, which can ruin the smooth texture of your salted caramel hot chocolate. Constant whisking is essential once the chocolate and dry ingredients are added to achieve a velvety, lump-free consistency. If you want a frothy texture similar to a cafe drink, use a milk frother or steam wand after removing the mixture from heat. Remember to drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over the whipped cream for that signature sweet and salty finish that defines this indulgent treat.
Nutritions
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Godiva Cafe contains whole milk, dark chocolate, and salted caramel sauce, providing a rich source of calcium and antioxidants from the cocoa. The inclusion of granulated sugar and whipped cream increases the caloric and sugar content, making it an indulgent treat rather than a low-calorie option. Sea salt adds a subtle sodium boost, which should be considered if you monitor your salt intake. Your beverage delivers a balanced flavor experience while offering benefits from the dark chocolate's flavonoids and the dairy's nutrients.
Storage
Store your Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Before reheating, whisk the mixture gently to recombine any separated ingredients and warm it over low heat to preserve the smooth, velvety texture. Avoid freezing, as it may cause the milk and caramel to separate, affecting the flavor and consistency.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute almond or oat milk for whole milk to create a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess. Instead of dark chocolate, use milk chocolate for a sweeter, less intense flavor profile. To heighten the salted caramel taste, sprinkle a pinch of finishing sea salt directly on top of the whipped cream. For a spicy twist, add a dash of cinnamon or cayenne pepper while whisking the cocoa mixture.
Allergies
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Godiva Cafe contains dairy ingredients such as whole milk and whipped cream, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The chocolate and caramel sauce may also include soy lecithin and other additives that pose risks for those with soy or sulfite sensitivities. If you have food allergies, carefully check all ingredient labels and consult with the cafe to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Godiva Cafe captivates with its rich, velvety chocolate base perfectly balanced by a hint of sea salt, enhancing the sweetness and creating a memorable flavor profile. This luxurious beverage combines premium Godiva chocolate with creamy caramel, delivering a decadent treat that satisfies sweet and savory cravings simultaneously. You'll find that recreating this drink at home is worth the effort, as it allows you to customize the sweetness and richness while indulging in a cafe-quality experience. Crafting your own copycat version brings the warmth and comfort of Godiva's signature drink to your kitchen, perfect for cozy moments or entertaining guests.