A good hot chocolate doesn’t always have to mean hassle. This classic version uses dark chocolate rather than a premixed powder, so you don’t compromise on flavour while still keeping things simple.
Niko B's founder, Anthony, trained at a chocolate research institute at the University of California, Davis, before launching his own small-batch chocolate business, first in San Francisco and later in East London. His chocolate is known for clean, fresh flavour, the same idea behind this recipe.
Inspired by the small-batch approach, Anthony's recipe shows just how simply the perfect perfect hot chocolate comes together in the Chai Maker and can be adapted to your taste depending on just how chocolatey you like it.
Classic Hot Chocolate
Ingredients (serves 2)
- 450ml whole milk
- 110g dark chocolate, broken into pieces (choose your favourite brand)
- Sweetener, to taste
Method:
Add the milk to the Chai Maker and bring to a boil over medium- heat, watching for the fountain and adjusting the heat so it doesn't boil over. Add the chocolate to the strainer, let it melt for a few seconds, then stir in the middle of the strainer with a fork or spoon to help it move through. Leave for a minute or two longer, remove from the heat, swirl, and pour.
Once the chocolate has melted through the strainer, the drink is technically ready. Another minute or two on the heat helps it finish blending, but don't push it much further than that or you risk scorching the milk. Always swirl the pot before pouring, to bring up anything that's settled at the bottom.
This recipe uses 72% dark chocolate. Push to 90%+ for something bolder and less sweet, or drop to 50–60% for something sweeter. Any dairy-free milk works 1:1 in place of whole milk.
Make it your own
Once you've got the core method down, it's an easy base to riff on.
- Richer and creamier — swap 115ml of the milk for double cream.
- Bolder and more chocolate-forward — add a tablespoon of cacao powder alongside the chocolate.
Made your own version? We'd love to see it. Tag us @weare_loka and tell us which one you went with. We’ve got plenty more planned for hot chocolate season, so watch this space for more to come.
