Where's Spring?

 

Well, my kids were supposed to go back to school today, but after a foot of snow, they're having a snow day! In addition to just having a week off for Spring Break, I feel like I'll never get them back to school! My normal routine is shot! So, while they're outside making an igloo, I thought I'd make us "The Best Hot Chocolate!" This decadent recipe is a far cry from the powdered mixes with dehydrated marshmallow pellets...ick! High quality dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and cream make this hot chocolate very rich and satisfying! Not only is it delicious after a chilling afternoon in the snow, for breakfast alongside beignets or croissants, it also makes an elegant after dinner drink, no additional dessert needed! Once you try this, you'll never buy the box stuff again!

The Best Hot Chocolate

Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

4 cups/1 liter whole milk

1 cup/250 ml heavy cream

3 ounces/80 grams best-quality dark chocolate

4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

4 tablespoons sugar

Directions:

Put the milk, cream, and chocolate in a saucepan and heat gently until the chocolate has melted. Combine the cocoa and sugar in a small bowl and stir in just a bit of the milk mixture to make a smooth paste, then stir that paste back into the warm milk. Continue heating, now whisking constantly, until the chocolate milk is hot and frothy. Ladle into cups, and serve. Mmmmm!