Mexican Molinillo – Hot Chocolate Frother

Mexican Molinillo Whisks are traditional tools for frothing up hot chocolate drinks. Whether you’re a native Mexican or you love the traditional flavours and techniques, this wonderful tool is sure to appeal. The wood is skillfully turned and scorched into attractive patterns and the captive wooden rings on the shaft really showcase the care and passion that goes into making them. Care is simple, but important! Immediately after use, clean by hand with clean water, removing all traces of chocolate. As it is natural, bare wood, do not put it in a dishwasher and especially do not soak it for long periods of time! Both of these things can warp the wood or encourage rot.

Mexican Molinillo use is pretty straight forward and is really quite enjoyable once you know how. In a large pan, warm some milk then add the disks or pieces of Mexican hot chocolate. As they melt, hold the end of the Molinillo between the palms of your hands and roll it back and forth. The rapid spinning assists in melting the chocolate and froths the milk up into a wonderful texture. In Mexico, they often use a large ceramic pot to make the drink in to keep any splashes contained within. This also means you can really give it some welly and get a really rich foam going!

What’s different about Mexican hot chocolate?

Like many things Mexican, their hot chocolate with often have a chilli edge or some addition flavours from spices. Cinnamon is a popular one, but it may vary from brand or region your chocolate comes from.  It’s a little difficult to tell from the images, but the Molinillo is around 12 inches long (30cm). The whisk head may also differ in size due to natural variations in the wood thickness they use when turning it. Whatever size and shape you get, it’s a unique piece that’s made with passion!