If you’re craving a warm, indulgent hug in a mug, you have to try this Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe. This traditional Mexican beverage is a luscious blend of rich dark chocolate, the unique texture of masa harina, and a hint of cinnamon spice, all melted together into a velvety, comforting drink that feels like a festive celebration in every sip. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or want a special treat to impress your loved ones, this recipe captures the heart and soul of authentic Mexican flavors with effortless ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe lies in its wonderfully simple ingredient list. Each item plays a crucial role, from the masa harina that creates a smooth, hearty body to the dark chocolate that offers richness and depth, and the cinnamon that adds that warm spicy note typical of traditional Mexican drinks.
- 1/2 cup masa harina corn: The key to that unmistakably creamy, slightly thick texture that makes champurrado stand out from other hot chocolates.
- 3 cups water: Helps dissolve the masa harina and balances the drink’s consistency perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds a luscious creaminess that softens the bold flavors of chocolate and masa.
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks: The star ingredient delivering rich, deep cocoa notes and melt-in-your-mouth smoothness.
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed: Sweetens the drink naturally with a hint of molasses, enhancing the chocolate’s flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides a subtle spice that beautifully complements the chocolate and masa harina.
- 1/8 teaspoon Kosher salt: A pinch of salt brightens all the flavors and balances sweetness.
How to Make Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe
Step 1: Combine Masa Harina and Water
Start by adding the masa harina and water to a medium saucepan. Use a whisk to combine these two ingredients thoroughly until the masa harina is fully absorbed and there are no lumps. This step is essential for achieving that signature smooth base for your champurrado.
Step 2: Cook Until Smooth
Place the saucepan over medium heat and keep whisking consistently. This stirring process ensures the mixture becomes silky without any graininess. Patience here makes a huge difference; your efforts will pay off in the drink’s wonderful texture.
Step 3: Add Milk and Heat
Once your masa mixture is smooth, pour in the milk and gently bring the liquid to just a simmer. Heating to this point allows the flavors to meld beautifully but avoid a full boil to prevent curdling.
Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate, Cinnamon, and Salt
Turn off the heat and add the dark chocolate chunks, ground cinnamon, and salt to the saucepan. Whisk energetically until the chocolate melts completely, creating an irresistibly creamy and fragrant drink.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Pour your easy champurrado into warmed cups or mugs. The warm aromas of cinnamon and chocolate invite you to sip slowly and savor every bit of this Mexican treasure.
How to Serve Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little cinnamon on top or add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for visual flair and extra aroma. You can also top it with whipped cream or a few chocolate shavings for an indulgent touch that makes your cup inviting and special.
Side Dishes
Champurrado pairs wonderfully with traditional Mexican pastries like conchas or churros. The light sweetness and crisp texture of these treats complement the drink’s creamy richness perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe in decorative clay mugs or colorful ceramic cups to enhance the authentic vibe. For gatherings, consider serving it with small bowls of assorted toppings like toasted pepitas, mini marshmallows, or a drizzle of cajeta for an elevated twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover champurrado, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making reheated champurrado just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
Though freezing is an option, it’s best to avoid it with this drink because the texture can separate when thawed. For optimal enjoyment, stick with fresh or refrigerated storage.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, whisking continuously to restore its creamy texture. Avoid using the microwave as it can cause uneven heating and clumping. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the drink to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
What is masa harina, and why is it important in this recipe?
Masa harina is finely ground corn flour that’s traditionally used in Mexican cooking. It’s crucial for champurrado because it gives the drink its unique, creamy texture and subtle corn flavor that sets it apart from regular hot chocolate.
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark chocolate?
While you can substitute cocoa powder, the taste and creaminess will be less rich. Dark chocolate offers a smoother, more decadent profile that pairs perfectly with the masa harina and cinnamon.
Is this recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant people?
You can easily swap whole milk with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk to make a lactose-free version. The champurrado will still taste amazing, though the texture might be a touch different.
How spicy is the cinnamon in this drink?
The cinnamon adds a gentle warmth and fragrance rather than intense spiciness. It’s subtle and comforting, enhancing the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
Can I make champurrado ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! Make the champurrado earlier in the day, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat it before serving. This makes entertaining easy and stress-free while still impressing your guests with authentic flavors.
Final Thoughts
Making this Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe is truly like bringing a bit of Mexican warmth and tradition into your home. It’s comforting, delicious, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Once you try it, I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to drinks for chilly mornings or cozy nights. Go ahead, treat yourself and those you love to this rich, chocolaty, and soul-satisfying experience.
Print
Easy Champurrado: Creamy Mexican Chocolate Drink with Masa Harina and Cinnamon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This easy Champurrado recipe creates a rich and creamy Mexican chocolaty drink made with masa harina, milk, dark chocolate, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Perfectly warming and comforting, this traditional beverage is smooth, thick, and full of deep chocolate flavor, ideal for chilly mornings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup masa harina corn
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon Kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup whole milk
Sweeteners & Chocolate
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
Instructions
- Prepare masa mixture: Add 1/2 cup masa harina and 3 cups water to a medium saucepan. Whisk well over medium heat until the masa harina is completely absorbed and the mixture is smooth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add milk and simmer: Pour in 1 cup whole milk and bring the mixture to just barely a simmer, making sure not to boil.
- Add chocolate and seasonings: Stir in 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon Kosher salt, and 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar.
- Melt chocolate and finish: Turn off the heat and whisk vigorously until all the chocolate is melted and the drink is creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Pour into hot chocolate cups and enjoy the traditional warm, thick Mexican drink.
Notes
- Use masa harina specifically for making drinks or tortillas for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar for desired sweetness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk.
- Use Mexican table chocolate or a good quality dark chocolate for authentic flavor.
- Constant whisking is key to avoid lumps and ensure smoothness.
