There is nothing more comforting than a cup of Cocoa on a cool day. The perfect cocoa is warm but not hot. It cannot be too runny and it cannot be so thick that it's hard to swallow. It’s sweet without being overwhelmingly sweet. It has to be perfect on its own or with toppings and flavoring. In short, it has to be versatile, easy and tasty. After many delicious trial and error, I think we have found the perfect recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups of Milk
- 1.5 cup half and half
- 1 cup of evaporated milk
- 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla or peppermint extract (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
Instructions:
In a saucepan combine milk, half and half and evaporated milk over medium to low heat. When the milk is warm (do not let it boil) gradually stir in the chocolate chips. I used a whisk but you can use a wooden spoon to stir in the chips. Stir slowly over low heat until the chips are melted.
This is when you can taste the cocoa and decide if you would like to add any flavorings. Vanilla and peppermint extract can be quite strong. Start off by adding ½ teaspoon to the cocoa mix and tasting again. Remember it is easier to add more than it is to remove too much extract.
If the cocoa isn’t sweet enough you can add a teaspoon of sugar until you reach your desired level of sweetness. Ladle into cups and top with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, marshmallows or a candy cane.
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