Parisian Hot Chocolate

The days between Christmas and New Year’s are among my favorites. The world feels like it takes a little break – maybe not fully, but enough that the week is a time I want to savor. Counterintuitively (and a little sadly to admit), I will sometimes make a list of things I want to do during the break. If that goes against the spirit of slowing down, so be it. Checking off my list – even if it’s a happy to-do list – does something to my brain to make me feel I’ve made the most of my time.

While we are a little slower this coming week, I plan to make some slow and thick hot chocolate like the kind they serve at cafes in Italy and France. The kind that’s so rich you have to sip it rather than drink it, where a small demitasse is more than enough but a full mug might be just what you want. The prolific food writer and cookbook author David Lebovitz has a beautiful recipe for Parisian Hot Chocolate that fits the mood. Milk and chocolate are all you need, plus a little time. David suggests adding brown sugar, but here in Texas I like a handful of jumbo marshmallows melting into the chocolate, sprinkled with crushed candy canes. And maybe a splash or two of peppermint Schnapps.

Enjoy your slower days, and happy, healthy wishes for 2026.

Milk and chocolate are all you need for this rich hot chocolate like the kind served at cafes in Italy and France. Top with a splash of peppermint Schnapps and/or marshmallows and a sprinkle of peppermints. (Photo: Andria Dilling)

Parisian Hot Chocolate

Adapted from David Lebovitz’ recipe

2 cups whole milk
5 ounces good, bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
Peppermint Schnapps (optional)
Jumbo or mini marshmallows
Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Heat the milk in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. When the milk is warm, remove it from the heat and whisk in the chocolate, stirring until it is melted. Return to the heat and cook at a very low boil for about 2 to 3 minutes, whisking constantly. Serve warm in demitasse cups or small mugs with a splash of peppermint Schnapps (optional), and/or topped with marshmallows and a sprinkle of peppermints.