Depending on where you are in the country, it’s possible that the temperature is starting to drop below comfort levels.   In other parts of the country (and please note that I am jealous of those other parts), winter has manifested itself in a subtle breeze- if that.  Whether you’re preparing for another polar vortex or planning to celebrate the holidays on the beach, we truly believe that Hot Chocolate is not specific to cold weather.  Wherever you are, whatever your thermostat says, you do not want to pass up on this luxurious hot chocolate recipe.  Added bonus if it keeps you warm plus, HELLO…it’s chocolate.  So can you really go wrong?

Here’s the thing:  Dark chocolate is actually really good for you.  As long as you’re consuming it in moderation (because really, too much of a good thing is rarely a good thing), it has nutritional benefits that you can use as an excuse to enjoy this steaming cup of melted yumminess every day.  It’s a powerful source of antioxidants, it’s high in fiber, iron, and a number of other vitamins like Potassium and Magnesium.  It can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, protects your skin against the sun, and has been known to improve brain function.  I don’t know about you, but I must be a healthy genius considering all the dark chocolate I eat.    Having trouble finding the best brand to use in your hot chocolate (or your every day life)?  Check out our office Taste Test post and see which dark chocolate our HelloFresh Team deemed the best of the best.

Luxurious Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 vanilla bean, scraped (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
• 6 ounces dark chocolate (60%)
• 1/4 teaspoon Ancho chile powder
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Add the milk, sugar, cinnamon stick, and vanilla (with bean, if used) to a medium saucepan over low heat. Bring to a simmer and then remove from heat. Let steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and vanilla bean and discard.
2. Create a double boiler by setting a stainless steel or glass bowl over a saucepan filled with simmering water. Add the chocolate to the bowl and heat until the chocolate is melted.
3. Place the milk mixture back over medium low heat and pour in the melted chocolate. Whisk until completely combined and heated through. Add a pinch of salt and the chile powder. Divide between mugs and top with homemade marshmallows, if desired.

With a dash of Chile Powder, this recipe may warm you up in more ways than you expect.  This hot chocolate with a kick is likely to leave you satisfied with a sweet and spicy flavor.  Happy Cooking!