Spiced Decadent Hot Chocolate

Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 10 mins Total Time: 15 mins Yield: 2 servings

A rich and decadent hot chocolate spiced with cinnamon and clove, made with premium dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk (or your preferred milk)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped (Valrhona highly recommended)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (or maple syrup)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground clove (a small pinch)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• Whipped cream or marshmallows, for topping
• Optional: dark chocolate shavings, cinnamon, or chocolate syrup

Instructions

1. Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm but not boiling.
2. Add spices and cocoa: Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground clove, and salt. Stir well until fully dissolved.
3. Melt the chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
4. Simmer for flavor: Reduce the heat to low and let the hot chocolate simmer for 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally to blend the flavors.
5. Add vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and add optional garnishes like chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cinnamon.

Pro Tips

• Add 1-2 extra tablespoons of chocolate for a richer texture and thicker consistency.
• Use a strainer to sift the hot chocolate before serving to remove any lumps or undissolved cocoa powder.