Spiced Hot Chocolate
Serves 2
This is a seasonal favorite that can be personalized to suit your own taste! A little indulgent and a lot of flavor. Perfect for the holidays, or whenever there’s a chill in the air.
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
1 4-ounce bar dark or semi-sweet chocolate
1 tablespoon Espresso Sugar* (substitute 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder and 1 tablespoon sugar)
1 cinnamon stick
3 star anise
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (substitute pinch cayenne powder)
2 teaspoons honey, or to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional for adults: 2 tablespoons dark rum, spiced rum, vanilla rum, bourbon, brandy, Café XO, etc. to taste
Optional: rim glass with Green Chili Sugar* or Espresso Sugar*
Optional: frothed milk or fresh whipped cream
*Flavored sugars are available on-line at www.SpiceandTea.com
Preparation
Combine milk and chocolate in a saucepan; add the spices. Heat gently until the chocolate is melted and the milk is just beginning to boil. Remove from heat. Steep about 15 minutes. Whisk in the honey and vanilla. Taste. Add rum if using. Pour through sieve into mug; add frothed milk or whipped cream.
For more information, and to see Chef Donna’s other recipes, visit her website.