Hot Chocolate

I wait all year to sit by a fire with a cup of steaming hot cocoa. This recipe is very easy to make, and the flavor is great for such simple ingredients.

• 3 quarts (16 cups) milk
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 3 cups chocolate chips
• 3 teaspoons vanilla
• Pinch of salt

In a large pot, heat the milk over low heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder.

Add the chocolate chips, making sure to incorporate all the melted chocolate into the milk and cocoa, scraping the bottom with the whisk to make sure you get all the chocolate. Bring to a low boil, then turn off the heat. Add the vanilla and salt. Serves 8.

That is simple it is. I often half this recipe, or even third it because the cocoa is so rich. it will be sweeter depending on what type of chocolate and cocoa you use. I like to use semisweet chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder, then add a bit of sugar if I feel it needs it. As a topping, you can freeze whipped cream, then cut it into shapes. My heart began to melt almost immediately  after I put it in my hot chocolate, but it will still be cold when you eat some. I saw this on Pinterest, and I encourage you to try it, as it tastes wonderful with the cocoa, and adds a bit of edible decoration.