Some days you just need to have a warm drink, no matter what time of year it is. Whether you’re having coffee, hot chocolate, tea, or something else, there’s just something about a warm drink that soothes the mind, body, and soul.
The other night, I just needed something warm, wet, comforting, and a little sweet, so I decided to make some hot chocolate. For a moment I considered using the chocolate syrup that was hanging out in our refrigerator, but quickly decided that I wanted something with a little more body and flavor.
The commercial syrups can be too sweet sometimes, not to mention they’re loaded with random ingredients that don’t really nourish the body. Yes, I know, hot chocolate is comfort food, but sometimes part of that comfort is knowing that you’re also able to give the body what it needs.
When I first made this I added a little too much chocolate, so it was a bit bitter. Later I played with it until it was right for me.
This is one of those drinks that you make and enjoy the experience. Take it slow, and tweak it to suit your own tastes and cravings.
To start, slowly heat up 8 – 10 ounces of milk on the stove, stirring continuously. Take it off the burner once it starts steaming and looks a little frothy.
Put one heaping tablespoon of cocoa in your empty mug, then slowly (a tablespoon at a time), add the warm milk. Stir with a fork until there are no chunks of cocoa, then add in the rest of your milk.
Next add in 1/4-1/2 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract.
Finally, add in some Pure Maple Syrup to taste and stir. You could add another sweetener, but I highly suggest you at least try the maple syrup. It’s not over-powering and lends a certain something to the chocolate.
You can now drink it, or add a dash or so of ground cinnamon to the top. It definitely adds a bit of character to the drink.
All you have to do now is snuggle on the couch with a blanket and a good book, and enjoy your Hot Chocolate!
♥ Nicole
What’s your favorite comfort drink? Do you have a special way of making it?
This post is linked up with Homestead Blog Hop
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