Name: Spiced Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cinnamon stick, plus extra for garnish; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/8 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Whipped cream for topping (optional); Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the base

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure cocoa powder is fully dissolved.
Heat the mixture

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Warm the mixture slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Do not allow it to boil, but heat until steaming and small bubbles form around the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chocolate

Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 1 minute, then whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and silky. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Strain and serve

Remove the cinnamon stick and strain the hot chocolate through a fine-mesh sieve if desired for extra smoothness. Return to low heat for 1 minute if it has cooled too much.
Garnish and enjoy

Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and add a cinnamon stick as garnish. Serve immediately while hot.

Spiced Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutritional Information