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BARCELONA-STYLE HOT CHOCOLATE — RICH, SILKY, AND AROMATIC WITH CITRUS AND CINNAMON

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
BARCELONA-STYLE HOT CHOCOLATE — RICH, SILKY, AND AROMATIC WITH CITRUS AND CINNAMON

BARCELONA-STYLE HOT CHOCOLATE — RICH, SILKY, AND AROMATIC WITH CITRUS AND CINNAMON

Experience the flavors of Barcelona with this smooth, velvety hot chocolate inspired by the classic crema catalana. Unlike thicker versions meant for dipping churros, this recipe is naturally silky without starch, making it perfect to sip anytime—whether cozy at home or on the slopes in a thermos. Infused with fresh lemon and orange zest plus a dusting of cinnamon, it’s a citrus-kissed chocolate delight.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min

🍳 Cook Time: 10 min
🍽️ Yields: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 100 g dark chocolate (50% cocoa)
  • 50 g cocoa powder (e.g., 30 g Valrhona + 20 g Schmidt)
  • 400 ml milk
  • 300 ml water
  • 2 short espressos (100 ml)
  • 6 strips orange zest (use a vegetable peeler)
  • 4 strips lemon zest (use a vegetable peeler)
  • Whipped cream, cinnamon, and cocoa powder for serving

Instructions

1. Infuse Citrus with Liquids

  • In a saucepan, combine milk, water, espresso, and citrus zest strips.
  • Bring to a boil, then immediately remove from heat.
  • Cover and let steep for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
  • Remove zest strips.

2. Melt Chocolate and Combine

  • Place chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) in a bowl.
  • Pour a small amount of the hot infused liquid over the chocolate and stir until fully melted.
  • Add cocoa powder and stir until smooth and well blended.

3. Finish the Hot Chocolate

  • Slowly pour remaining hot liquid into the chocolate mixture in a thin stream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps and create a smooth texture.
  • Return the chocolate mixture to the saucepan and gently warm over low heat until steaming hot but not boiling.
  • Remove from heat.

4. Serve

  • Pour into cappuccino cups.
  • Top with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon or cocoa powder.

💡 Tips

  • Use quality chocolate and cocoa powder for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
  • Avoid boiling the hot chocolate to preserve its silky mouthfeel.
  • The citrus zest adds a bright aromatic note reminiscent of crema catalana.
  • Reheat gently if storing leftover chocolate, without boiling.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Cozy winter evenings or festive gatherings
  • Serving with churros or pastries
  • Enjoying on ski trips or outdoor adventures
  • Impressing guests with a sophisticated hot chocolate

📝 Final Thoughts

This Barcelona-style hot chocolate offers a perfect balance of rich cocoa, bright citrus, and warming spices. Naturally smooth and aromatic, it’s an elegant treat that transports you straight to the heart of Catalonia with every sip.