For me, the ritual of preparing Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate is nothing short of magical. As the chocolate tablet melts slowly into the milk, transforming into a frothy potion, it’s impossible not to feel a connection to all those who have shared this comforting experience through the years. The aroma that fills the kitchen is both comforting and invigorating, a prelude to the delicious warmth that this drink promises.
Table of Contents
How to make Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate
Nestlé Abuelita is a popular brand of Mexican hot chocolate known for its rich, cinnamon-infused flavor. It comes in solid tablets (discs), powdered mix, or syrup and is used to make traditional Mexican-style hot chocolate.
☕Check out Irresistible Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate on Amazon☕ (Ad)Ingredients:
- 1 tablet of Nestle Abuelita Chocolate (or 2 to 3 tablespoons of Abuelita granulated mix, if preferred)
- 4 cups of milk (whole milk is traditionally used for a richer taste, but you can use lower-fat options or plant-based milk for a lighter version)
- Optional: A cinnamon stick for additional flavor
- Optional: Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping
- Optional: A pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick
Instructions:
- Prepare the Milk: In a medium-sized saucepan, pour the milk. If you are using a cinnamon stick for extra flavor, add it to the milk. Slowly heat the milk on medium heat until it is warm, but be careful not to bring it to a boil.
- Add the Chocolate: Once the milk is warm, add the tablet of Nestle Abuelita Chocolate to the saucepan. If you’re using the granulated mix instead, measure the appropriate amount and add it to the milk.
- Stir and Melt: Using a whisk or a traditional Mexican wooden tool called a “molinillo,” stir the milk and chocolate mixture constantly. The goal here is to dissolve the chocolate tablet completely and incorporate air into the mixture, giving the hot chocolate its characteristic frothy texture.
- Simmer: Keep stirring the mixture as it heats up and thickens slightly. If you added a cinnamon stick, remove it before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the saucepan from the heat once the chocolate is completely melted and the beverage is hot and frothy. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and, if desired, top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
Tips:
- For Extra Froth: A molinillo is the traditional tool used to create the frothy top on Mexican hot chocolate, but if you don’t have one, you can achieve a similar effect by using a hand whisk or even a blender. Just be sure not to blend for too long to avoid overflow.
- Balancing Flavors: Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate is beautiful because of its balance of chocolate and spice. If you’re adding additional spices like chili powder, start with a small pinch and adjust to taste.
- Texture Preferences: For a thicker hot chocolate, use less milk or allow the mixture to simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce slightly. For a thinner consistency, add a bit more milk than the recipe calls for.
- Dietary Substitutions: If you’re lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk as replacements. Some alternative milk can bring additional flavours that complement the chocolate and cinnamon nicely.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover hot chocolate, store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop. You may need to add a bit more milk, as it might thicken when cooled.
What to serve with
Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate is a comforting and flavorful beverage that stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with the proper treats can elevate the entire experience.
Sweet Accompaniments:
- Churros: Perhaps the most classic pairing with Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate, churros are long, fried dough pastries that are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are typically sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon. The combination of warm churros dipped into hot chocolate is heavenly and truly authentic.
- Pan Dulce: This Mexican sweet bread comes in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, including conchas (shell-shaped sweet rolls), cuernos (horn-shaped), and bolillos (sugar-topped buns). It’s less sweet than other pastries, making it a perfect match for the rich chocolate.
- Biscochos are traditional Mexican cookies, often flavored with anise and topped with cinnamon and sugar. Their crispy texture pairs well with the creamy texture of hot chocolate.
Savory Options:
- Tamales: A surprising but delightful pairing, the savory notes of tamales stuffed with meats, cheeses, or chiles contrast beautifully with the sweet and spicy notes of the hot chocolate, creating a balanced culinary experience.
- Quesadillas or Molletes: Opt for simple cheese quesadillas or molletes. These open-faced Mexican sandwiches are made with bolillos, beans, and cheese, grilled until everything is deliciously melted. The savory elements complement the sweetness of your hot chocolate.
Desserts:
- Flan or Caramel Custard: This creamy, caramel-topped dessert is another great option for serving with hot chocolate. Its smooth, rich texture and the contrast of the caramel flavor work wonderfully alongside the deep chocolate taste.
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: If you’re in the mood for double the chocolate, a Mexican chocolate cake, which typically includes cinnamon and sometimes chili, complements the drink’s flavors perfectly.
Snacks:
- Toasted Nuts: A bowl of toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts seasoned with a bit of salt can offer a delightful crunch and contrast to the smoothness of the chocolate.
- Fresh Fruit: Slices of apple, pears, or a bowl of berries offer a fresh, juicy counterpoint to the richness of the hot chocolate. The natural sugars in the fruit enhance the drink’s deeper chocolate tones.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating a homemade version of Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate offers an opportunity to personalize it to your taste preferences, dietary requirements, or simply to work with what you have on hand.
1. Cocoa or Chocolate Base:
Original Requirement: Abuelita chocolate comes in the form of solid tablets that are meant to be dissolved in milk or water.
Substitutes:
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: A good alternative to the chocolate tablets. Start with 2 to 3 tablespoons per cup of milk, adjusting for strength and taste. Keep in mind you’ll need to add sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate (60-70% cacao): For a richer, more gourmet experience, use high-quality dark chocolate bars chopped into small pieces. About 2 ounces per cup of milk should suffice. Adjust according to preferred intensity.
2. Sweetener:
Original Requirement: The tablets are pre-sweetened.
Substitutes:
- Sugar: Granulated sugar or cane sugar can be used to taste. Start with 1-2 tablespoons per cup of milk and adjust according to your preference.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: For a natural sweetener option, honey or maple syrup adds unique flavors. Start with a tablespoon per cup of milk and adjust to taste.
- Artificial Sweeteners: If you’re looking for a low-calorie option, consider artificial sweeteners. The amount will vary based on the sweetener’s sweetness compared to sugar, so refer to the conversion instructions provided by the manufacturer.
3. Milk:
Original Requirement: Typically, whole milk is used for its creaminess.
Substitutes:
- Dairy-Free Milks: Almond, oat, coconut, or soy milk can be excellent dairy-free alternatives. They each contribute unique flavors to the hot chocolate.
- Reduced-Fat or Skim Milk: If calorie content is a concern, these can lighten the beverage but will also reduce its creaminess.
4. Spices:
Original Requirement: Cinnamon is the traditional spice, often included within the chocolate tablet.
Substitutes or Additions:
- Ground Cinnamon: If using a substitute for the chocolate that doesn’t include spices, add a quarter to half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon per cup of milk or adjust to taste.
- Cinnamon Stick: Adding a whole cinnamon stick to the milk while it heats can infuse a more subtle cinnamon flavor. This works well with the cocoa powder or dark chocolate alternatives.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract can add depth. About half a teaspoon per cup of milk is a good starting point.
- Chile Powder: Add a pinch of chile powder for a bit of heat. This is particularly authentic and adds another layer of complexity.
Final Thoughts
Enjoying a cup of Nestle Abuelita Mexican Hot Chocolate is more than just about the taste; it’s about the aroma, the warmth, and the feeling of nostalgia and comfort that comes with every sip.
More Hot Chocolate Recipes:
- Chocolate Cookie Crumble Crème Frappuccino Recipe
- Copycat Starbucks Dubai Chocolate Recipe
- Homemade Nesquik Chocolate Milk Recipe
- Glace Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Crockpot Hot Chocolate with Instant Mix
Ingredients
- 1 tablet of Nestle Abuelita Chocolate
- 4 cups of milk
- Optional: A cinnamon stick for additional flavor
- Optional: Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping
- Optional: A pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Prepare the Milk: In a medium-sized saucepan, pour the milk. If you are using a cinnamon stick for extra flavor, add it to the milk. Slowly heat the milk on medium heat until it is warm, but be careful not to bring it to a boil.
- Add the Chocolate: Once the milk is warm, add the tablet of Nestle Abuelita Chocolate to the saucepan. If you're using the granulated mix instead, measure the appropriate amount and add it to the milk.
- Stir and Melt: Using a whisk or a traditional Mexican wooden tool called a "molinillo," stir the milk and chocolate mixture constantly. The goal here is to dissolve the chocolate tablet completely and incorporate air into the mixture, giving the hot chocolate its characteristic frothy texture.
- Simmer: Keep stirring the mixture as it heats up and thickens slightly. If you added a cinnamon stick, remove it before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the saucepan from the heat once the chocolate is completely melted and the beverage is hot and frothy. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and, if desired, top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
