Unlike most folks in Washington state, I prefer a steaming mug of hot chocolate over coffee for a comfort boost, and finding the perfect blend can be surprisingly difficult at times. This recipe (in my daughter’s beautifully crafted handmade mug) has become my gold standard. Enjoy!!

This recipe is easy to halve or double or triple as you see fit!

Hot Chocolate For Two:
2 cups (488 g) whole milk
2 T (15 g) cocoa powder
2 T (24 g) white sugar
1/4 cup (43 g) chocolate callets (these resemble chocolate chips but are made from couverture chocolate so they have a better flavor and melting capability)
1/4 tsp of vanilla extract or vanilla paste

Place all the ingredients in a small saucepan and put on medium heat, stirring frequently, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is just starting to bubble around the edges.

Pour into your favorite mug and serve with a topping of your choice!

Topping Ideas
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Mini-marshmallows
Crushed peppermint
Salted caramel chips

Enjoy!!!

Developed from an exceedingly large amount of experimentation.