Cinnamon Spiced Hot Chocolate

Cinnamon Spiced Hot Chocolate

Recipe by Dragon

Real hot chocolate is a beautiful thing and something everyone should enjoy over the holidays and all winter long.  I love this spiced version because cinnamon and chocolate are a wonderful combination. Enjoy!

Serves 4

Ingredients:

3 cups whole milk

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup table cream (18%) or heavy cream (35%)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 oz shot of espresso or strong coffee

1 tablespoon vanilla

pinch of salt

4 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped (if you want it extra sweet, use semisweet chocolate)

1 cinnamon stick

Garnish: whipped cream and/or cinnamon sticks

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, brown sugar and cream until mixture begins to simmer.

2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and whisk in cocoa powder until it is incorporated. Add espresso, vanilla, salt, chocolate, and cinnamon and stir until chocolate is melted and smooth. Strain through a fine sieve and serve hot. This can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.