Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This champurrado recipe is cherished for its:
- Authenticity: Rooted in Mexican culinary traditions, it brings cultural richness to your table.
- Simplicity: With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.
- Comforting Qualities: Its thick, chocolatey consistency makes it a perfect beverage for chilly days and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk
- 2 ounces piloncillo (or ¼ cup dark brown sugar)
- 2 discs (3 ounces each) Mexican chocolate
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1½ cups warm water
- ½ cup masa harina
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon fine salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, piloncillo, Mexican chocolate, and cinnamon stick. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the piloncillo and chocolate have completely dissolved. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick.
- Prepare Masa Harina Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water and masa harina until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the masa harina mixture into the saucepan with the milk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent clumping. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, whisking frequently, until the champurrado thickens to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
- Serve: For an extra smooth texture, blend the champurrado with an immersion blender before serving. Pour into mugs and enjoy warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond milk, soy milk, or your preferred plant-based milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Spice Enhancement: Add a pinch of ground cloves or a star anise pod during the heating process for additional warmth and depth of flavor.
- Citrus Note: Incorporate a strip of orange peel while heating the milk mixture to introduce a subtle citrus aroma.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the champurrado to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, pour the desired amount into a saucepan. Add a splash of milk or water to adjust the consistency, as it tends to thicken when chilled. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
FAQs
What is the difference between champurrado and hot chocolate?
Champurrado is a traditional Mexican beverage that combines chocolate with masa harina, giving it a thicker consistency and a distinct corn flavor, unlike regular hot chocolate.
Can I use regular chocolate instead of Mexican chocolate?
While Mexican chocolate provides a unique flavor due to its blend of cacao, sugar, and cinnamon, you can substitute it with semi-sweet chocolate and a pinch of cinnamon in a pinch.
Is champurrado gluten-free?
Yes, since it’s made with masa harina, which is naturally gluten-free, champurrado is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make champurrado ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a bit of added liquid to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I serve with champurrado?
Champurrado pairs wonderfully with traditional Mexican pastries like pan dulce or tamales, enhancing the overall experience.
How can I adjust the sweetness of champurrado?
You can modify the sweetness by adjusting the amount of piloncillo or sugar to suit your taste preferences.
Why is my champurrado grainy?
A grainy texture may result from undissolved masa harina. Ensure you whisk the masa harina thoroughly with warm water before adding it to the milk mixture.
Can I freeze champurrado?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
What is piloncillo, and where can I find it?
Piloncillo is unrefined cane sugar commonly used in Mexican cooking, known for its deep, caramel-like flavor. It’s available in Latin American grocery stores or online.
Can I make champurrado without masa harina?
Masa harina is essential for the traditional texture and flavor of champurrado. Substituting it would result in a different beverage altogether.
Conclusion
Champurrado is more than just a beverage; it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and joy, especially during the colder months. Its rich, chocolatey flavor combined with the unique taste of masa harina makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re new to this Mexican classic or revisiting a cherished
Champurrado
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Warm up with this authentic Mexican Champurrado recipe, a rich and creamy chocolate beverage made with masa harina and infused with cinnamon. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights, this traditional drink is a must-try for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk
- 2 ounces piloncillo (or ¼ cup dark brown sugar)
- 2 discs (3 ounces each) Mexican chocolate
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1½ cups warm water
- ½ cup masa harina
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
- Heat Milk Mixture: Combine milk, piloncillo, Mexican chocolate, and cinnamon stick in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring frequently, until piloncillo and chocolate dissolve. Discard cinnamon stick.
- Prepare Masa Harina Mixture: Whisk warm water and masa harina in a bowl until smooth and lump-free.
- Combine and Cook: Slowly whisk masa harina mixture into the milk mixture. Add vanilla and salt. Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.
- Serve: For extra smoothness, blend with an immersion blender before pouring into mugs. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Substitute whole milk with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the piloncillo or sugar amount.
- Add a pinch of cloves or orange peel for flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
