Prepare Ingredients:

Before starting, ensure all your ingredients are measured and the chocolate is finely chopped. This will help the chocolate melt evenly into the mixture.

Heat Milk and Cream:

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch for small bubbles to appear around the edges of the saucepan, indicating the mixture is hot enough. Be careful not to bring it to a boil.

Add Sweeteners:

Sprinkle in the powdered sugar (and espresso powder if using). Whisk until fully dissolved into the milk and cream mixture. The espresso powder is optional but recommended as it deepens the chocolate flavor without imparting a coffee taste.

Melt Chocolate:

Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the chopped bittersweet chocolate, stirring continuously until the chocolate has completely melted into the milk and cream mixture. If the chocolate doesn’t melt thoroughly, return the saucepan to low heat, stirring constantly to prevent the bottom from scorching.

Serve Immediately:

Once the chocolate has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety, pour the hot chocolate into cups. This recipe yields two generously sized servings or four smaller cups.

Garnish and Enjoy:

Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of French Hot Chocolate.

Storing Leftovers:

If you have leftovers, allow the hot chocolate to cool to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy again. It might thicken upon cooling, so you can add a little milk while reheating to adjust the consistency.