French hot chocolate—chocolat chaud—is no ordinary drink; it’s a luxurious experience that embodies the essence of French patisserie and café culture.
Unlike the quick, powdered mixes or syrups many of us are used to, real French hot chocolate is meticulously crafted with real melted chocolate (and an egg!) resulting in a thick, dessert-like indulgence. Scroll down to discover how you can recreate Louis XV’s famous French Hot Chocolate recipe in your own kitchen.
The Legacy of Louis XV’s Hot Chocolate Recipe
While it’s debatable whether Marie Antoinette ever said, “Let them eat cake,” her love for refined tastes—delicate pastries and rich hot chocolate included—is well-documented.
Her First Chambermaid, Madame Campan, noted Marie Antoinette’s penchant for a “sort of bread” from Vienna, known today as the croissant. Although the “cake” quote may be a myth, her sweet tooth was no secret; liquid chocolate was one of her most cherished indulgences.
However, it was actually her father-in-law, Louis XV, who popularized this particular hot chocolate recipe at the French Court in Versailles. Rich and creamy, it became a staple, enjoyed by royalty and nobility alike.
A French Royal Tradition: “Chocolat Chaud”
Hot chocolate in France has deep historical roots. Introduced to French nobility by Spanish Conquistadors in the 17th century, it became an immediate favorite. Louis XIII and Anne of Austria first introduced it to France, but it was under Louis XIV at Versailles that chocolate truly became a symbol of luxury.
By the time Louis XV took the throne, chocolat chaud had achieved iconic status, and he often prepared it himself in his private quarters. His mistress, Madame Du Barry, shared his affection for this rich drink, which was prized for its flavor, health benefits, and aphrodisiac qualities.
When Marie Antoinette married Louis XVI in 1770, she brought her own chocolatier to the Court. Her chocolatier crafted custom blends using ingredients like orange blossom and sweet almonds, making the royal drink even more refined.
Although chocolate-making became more widespread in the 19th century, Louis XV’s recipe remains a reminder of Versailles’ opulence. This treasured recipe has survived the centuries, offering a sip of French history in every cup.
Louis XV’s Original French Hot Chocolate Recipe
This heritage recipe, dating back to 1755, is surprisingly simple yet exquisitely rich. Its signature creaminess comes from an egg yolk, adding a velvety texture that sets it apart from modern hot chocolate. For more on Marie Antoinette’s favorite hot chocolate straight from the Chateau de Versailles, check out the original recipe here.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of water
- 4 bars of dark chocolate (opt for the richest, most authentic chocolate you can find)
- 1 egg yolk (or a beaten egg white, for a frothier texture)
Method:
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate bars and water in a saucepan or traditional cafetière. Heat gently over low heat until the chocolate melts and the mixture simmers. Stir occasionally to ensure the chocolate dissolves smoothly.
- Let it Rest: For a deeper flavor, prepare the hot chocolate a day in advance. Once ready, let it cool and rest overnight.
- Add the Egg: Before serving, reheat the chocolate. For every four cups, add one egg yolk, stirring carefully without letting it boil. The yolk will thicken the mixture, making it creamy. Alternatively, for a frothier texture, use a beaten egg white. Remove the top froth, stir some chocolate into the egg white, and return it to the mix.
- Final Touches: Serve hot and enjoy! If preparing it daily, reserve a small amount as a base for the next day to enhance the flavor.
- Serve and Savor: Serve piping hot, and enjoy! If you’re preparing it daily, reserve a small portion as a starter for the next day’s batch to enhance the flavor.
This recipe lets you enjoy the same rich, luxurious chocolat chaud once savored by French royalty—perfect for a moment of pure indulgence.
An Insider Tip:
If you find yourself in Versailles, be sure to visit the renowned Angelina Café, where their legendary hot chocolate is an absolute must-try. There are two locations in Versailles, and many more in Paris!
- Angelina at the Palace of Versailles: Check it out the elegant tea room on the first floor of the Palace.
- Angelina at the Petit Trianon: Located on the terrace by the entrance to the Petit Trianon, this spot provides a delightful setting for a gourmet break amidst the park’s beauty.
Both venues uphold Angelina’s tradition of exquisite pastries and their signature velvety hot chocolate that has delighted patrons since 1903.
