Classic homemade hot chocolate

I am absolutely hooked on Starbucks’ hot chocolate.

It has the perfect amount of chocolate, creaminess and richness. And when the baristas add a pump of peppermint—oh, it’s just perfect!

Starbucks’ recipe has become my gold standard for hot chocolates everywhere. I try dozens of different cocoas every winter, but I have yet to find a better recipe.

However, as you know, a Starbucks habit can be an expensive one. I’ll never be able to give it up, but when the weather is as cold as it is right now (with the wind chill, it’s -10 in Chicago), I can’t even bring myself to get in the car to hit the drive-through!

Enter this classic homemade hot chocolate recipe. It’s not a Starbucks copycat recipe, but it’s pretty delectable treat made even more delicious because you don’t have to brave the cold to enjoy it!

This recipe is delectable on its own, but I like to add a handful of chocolate chips and a dollop of peppermint whipped cream, as well. You can also drop in a scoop of crushed candy canes.

Also, the higher the quality of the cocoa powder you use, the more indulgent this recipe will be, so treat yo self! You deserve it. 🙂

Ingredients:

1/4 cup high-quality cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup hot water
1/8 tsp. salt
4 cups milk
1/2 tsp. vanilla

Directions:

1. Mix water, sugar, salt and cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat until it boils. Stir constantly to ensure it doesn’t burn. Let the mixture boil for one minute (continue to stir).

2. Add milk to the saucepan, and continue to stir. Don’t let the mixture boil, or else the milk will curdle.

3. After the milk is warm, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla. Serve immediately.

What’s your favorite cold-weather drink? Hot chocolate will always be my first choice, but I’ve been coming around to coffee lately, too. Are there any tea drinkers out there? I’d love to hear what’s keeping you warm on these cold January days!