Homemade Champurrado is a deliciously comforting Mexican drink that makes you feel instantly warm and cozy. This thick, chocolatey beverage is traditionally made with masa harina, giving it a unique texture that sets it apart from other hot drinks. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, champurrado is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make at home. Let’s dive into what makes this drink so irresistible and how you can create your own pot of homemade goodness.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 310
- Protein: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 49 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 18 grams
- Sodium: 105 mg
Why Make This Homemade Champurrado
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of homemade champurrado. Firstly, it’s an authentic way to enjoy a taste of Mexico right in your own kitchen. The combination of masa harina and chocolate produces a creamy, rich texture that’s incredibly satisfying. Additionally, you can customize the sweetness and spice level to your liking. Whether sipping it slowly by the fireplace or serving it at a celebration, this drink brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
How to Make Homemade Champurrado
Embarking on the journey to make champurrado is as simple as gathering a few ingredients and following these straightforward steps.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups masa harina
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate (dark or semi-sweet)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, mix the masa harina with the water until smooth. This step is crucial as it helps create a lump-free base for your champurrado.
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Step 2: Mixing
Gradually add the milk while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps in your mixture. The goal is to achieve a silky consistency that will be the foundation of your drink.
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Step 3: Cooking
Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens. As you stir, feel the texture shift from liquid to a creamy consistency.
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Step 4: Finishing
Add the sugar, chocolate, cinnamon, and salt to the pot, stirring until the chocolate melts and everything combines beautifully. If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra pop of flavor. Serve warm, optionally topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
How to Serve Homemade Champurrado
Serve your champurrado in cozy mugs to keep the warmth in. It pairs beautifully with sweet treats like pan dulce or churros, making it an ideal snack for brunch or dessert. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with a cinnamon stick.
How to Store Homemade Champurrado
If you have leftover champurrado, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent lumps from forming. If the drink thickens too much, simply add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Champurrado
- Masa Harina Choice: Opt for a high-quality masa harina for the best flavor and texture.
- Chocolate Type: The choice of chocolate can significantly affect the taste; dark chocolate offers deeper flavor, while semi-sweet provides a milder sweetness.
- Consistency Control: If you prefer a thinner drink, adjust the liquid (water or milk) according to your liking.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Taste your champurrado after combining ingredients to adjust the sweetness to your personal preference.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Champurrado: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warming spice kick.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut butter for added richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I make champurrado ahead of time?
Yes, champurrado stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated when you’re ready to enjoy it. -
What can I use instead of masa harina?
Cornstarch can be used in a pinch, but it won’t replicate the same flavor or texture. -
Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Nutmeg or cardamom can add delightful variations to the flavor profile. -
Is champurrado gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chocolate is gluten-free, champurrado made with masa harina is a gluten-free beverage. -
Can I use water instead of milk?
Yes, using only water will result in a lighter drink, while milk gives it a richer taste.
Conclusion
Homemade champurrado is not just a drink; it’s a warm embrace in a cup. With its creamy consistency and luscious chocolate flavor, it’s a fantastic treat for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try making this delightful drink at home, adjust it to your taste, and experience a little slice of Mexican culture. Cheers to cozy moments and delicious homemade beverages!
Print
Homemade Champurrado
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously comforting Mexican drink, champurrado is a thick, chocolatey beverage made with masa harina, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups masa harina
- 4 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate (dark or semi-sweet)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, mix the masa harina with the water until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Add the sugar, chocolate, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until the chocolate melts. Optionally, add vanilla extract and serve warm.
Notes
Serve with sweet treats like pan dulce or churros. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
