Champurrado

Champurrado is a traditional Mexican warm beverage made from masa harina, chocolate, milk, and spices. Thick, creamy, and richly flavored, it is often enjoyed during festive occasions or chilly mornings. Known for its comforting texture and sweet chocolate aroma, champurrado is a beloved drink served alongside tamales or enjoyed on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This champurrado recipe offers the perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and a velvety, thick consistency. It is naturally warming, making it an excellent choice for cold weather or holiday gatherings. The combination of masa harina and milk creates a satisfying drink that can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an evening indulgence. Moreover, it is easy to customize to your preferred sweetness and thickness.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Masa harina

• Water

• Milk

• Mexican chocolate (table chocolate, such as Abuelita or Ibarra)

• Piloncillo (or brown sugar)

• Ground cinnamon

• Vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

directions

1. In a medium pot, whisk masa harina into water until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.

2. Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken.

3. Add milk, chopped Mexican chocolate, piloncillo, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.

4. Stir continuously until the chocolate and piloncillo are fully dissolved, and the drink reaches your desired consistency.

5. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

6. Serve hot, preferably with tamales or pan dulce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegan option: Use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of dairy milk.

• Spiced champurrado: Add cloves, star anise, or nutmeg for a more aromatic drink.

• Sweeter version: Increase the piloncillo or add sweetened condensed milk.

• Thicker texture: Add more masa harina or cook longer to reduce liquid.

• Lighter version: Use more water and less milk for a thinner drink.

storage/reheating

Store leftover champurrado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until hot. If the drink has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it before serving.

FAQs

How thick should champurrado be?

It should have a consistency similar to thin pudding or thick hot chocolate.

Can I make champurrado without Mexican chocolate?

Yes, you can use dark or semi-sweet chocolate, but adding cinnamon and a bit of extra sugar will help replicate the authentic flavor.

Is champurrado gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use masa harina made from 100% corn, it is naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare champurrado ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating as needed.

What is the difference between champurrado and atole?

Atole is a masa-based drink without chocolate, while champurrado is an atole enriched with chocolate.

Can I use regular sugar instead of piloncillo?

Yes, brown sugar or white sugar can be used, but piloncillo offers a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

How can I prevent lumps in champurrado?

Whisk the masa harina thoroughly with water before heating and stir constantly during cooking.

Can I use masa dough instead of masa harina?

Yes, fresh masa can be used, but dissolve it well in water to avoid clumps.

What type of milk is best for champurrado?

Whole milk provides a creamier texture, but you can use any milk or plant-based alternative.

Is champurrado served only during holidays?

While often associated with holidays like Día de los Muertos and Christmas, it can be enjoyed year-round.

Conclusion

Champurrado is a rich, comforting beverage that brings together the earthy flavor of masa harina with the sweetness of chocolate and warm spices. Whether enjoyed during a festive celebration or as a cozy drink on a cool morning, its heartwarming taste and satisfying texture make it a timeless favorite in Mexican cuisine

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