This Colombian-style hot chocolate, known locally as Chocolate Santafereño, is a beloved beverage from the Cundinamarca region. It’s commonly enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack alongside Colombian cheese breads like pandebono.
What is Chocolate Santafereño?
Chocolate Santafereño is a warm, comforting hot chocolate popular in Colombia, especially in Bogotá. Hot chocolate is a staple in many Colombian homes; families often drink it at breakfast with arepas and cheese or later as a merienda (an evening snack) accompanied by pastries, bread, and more cheese.
A distinctive Colombian tradition is adding small chunks of fresh cheese directly into the hot chocolate. The cheese softens and melts slightly in the hot drink, creating a delightful contrast of textures and a uniquely Colombian flavor experience.
What You Need to Make Colombian Hot Chocolate
To prepare authentic Chocolate Santafereño, a couple of traditional tools are handy: a chocolatera (a tall, narrow metal pot designed for heating chocolate) and a bolinillo or molinillo (a wooden whisk used to froth the drink). Both can be found in Latin markets or purchased online.
Below is a brief overview of the ingredients and tips; the printable recipe card with exact measurements and steps follows in the recipe section.
Milk: Whole milk produces the creamiest texture. For a dairy-free version, use almond, oat, or coconut milk, but note the flavor and mouthfeel will differ from the traditional version.
Cinnamon: A pinch of ground cinnamon adds warmth and aroma that complement the chocolate.
Chocolate: Use a good-quality bittersweet chocolate. Colombian brands like Luker are commonly used, but any high-quality chocolate bar that you enjoy will work.
Sugar: Add to taste, depending on the sweetness of the chocolate and your preference.
This hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with typical Colombian breads such as pandebono, almojábana, buñuelos, and pan blandito. Serve it warm and, if you like, drop in small cubes of a mild, fresh cheese for an authentic experience.
More Comforting Drinks
Caspiroleta (Warm Punch)
Candil (Creamy Warm Drink)
Aromáticas de Frutas (Fruit Tea)
Colombian-Style Hot Chocolate Recipe
Erica Dinho
Pin Recipe
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Ingredients
- 4 ½ cups whole milk
- 2 ½ tablespoons sugar or to your taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate chopped
Instructions
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Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it is just below simmering. Add the chopped chocolate and stir until it melts. Once melted, add the sugar and ground cinnamon, stirring to combine.
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Whisk vigorously with a whisk or bolinillo, or transfer to a blender for a frothy texture. Reheat gently if needed and serve immediately. Optionally add small cubes of fresh cheese to each cup for a traditional touch.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Sugar: 34g
Calcium: 361mg
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