Fall is turning to winter. There are some days that still feel pretty good as fall tries to keep its hold for just a little longer. One of my all-time favorite comfort foods (Ok, so it’s actually a drink, but you get my point)is hot chocolate. The little packets are incredibly convenient and very nice for a quick warm up. However, they always taste a bit watery to me. They are better if you make them with heated milk, but there is still no comparison to what it tastes like made from scratch and it really does not take that long to do. You need no special equipment; just a regular pot, and 15 minutes or less. This recipe actually came from my Grandma.
I remember getting off the school bus on the first afternoon where the temperature had dropped like a rock. I would feel the wind bite my face, and as I ran towards my house, I could not help but think, “Is this the day? Will she have it waiting for me?” I would hit the door, and if I was very, very lucky, then the minute I pushed the door in I would be greeted by the warm scent of chocolate and I knew that I had hit the jackpot. It didn’t matter what kind of a day I had at school. It didn’t matter how heavy my backpack was or how much homework it contained, I knew, THIS was going to be a good afternoon.
Now, I am in the Momma spot, and my own kids are the ones running towards the house on a cold afternoon wondering if this will be waiting for them as their afternoon snack. The packet kind just does not compare! This is pure magic in a pot. Is your mouth watering yet? Mine is! Here is the recipe!
Heart Warming Hot Chocolate Made from Scratch
1/2 C sugar
1/4 C cocoa powder
Dash of salt
1/3 C Hot water
4 C Milk**
3/4 t vanilla
Marshmallows and whipped cream optional
Stir together sugar, cocoa, and salt in a medium saucepan. Stir in water and cook over med heat, stirring constantly until it boils. Boil and stir 2 minutes. Add milk, stirring constantly. Heat to serving temperature, but do not boil again.
Remove from heat, add vanilla. If desired, beat with a rotary mixer until foamy. Serve in mugs, adding whipped cream and marshmallows if desired.
* Mint variation: add 1/2 t mint extract or 3 peppermint candies
** I use between 4-6 cups of milk depending on how rich I want it and how much milk I have on hand.