When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats wrapping your hands around a warm mug of Spiced Cinnamon Hot Chocolate. This isn't your average hot chocolate—it's a cozy, spiced delight with a hint of chili to keep you on your toes. Whether you're curled up with a book or having a movie night, this will be your go-to treat.
Whole milk provides the creamy base for our drink, making it rich and satisfying. Heavy cream adds an extra layer of indulgence, creating a luscious texture. We use semisweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness and smooth melting. A tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor without adding more sugar. A touch of sugar sweetens the pot just right. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and a cozy aroma, while a pinch of chili powder adds a surprising kick. Finally, a dash of vanilla extract rounds everything out with a touch of sweetness.
This Spiced Cinnamon Hot Chocolate pairs beautifully with buttery shortbread cookies or a slice of warm apple pie. For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside chocolate-dipped strawberries or with a side of toasted marshmallows for dunking.
Start by combining whole milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it's steaming, but be careful not to let it boil. You want it hot enough to melt the chocolate but not scalding.
Next, stir in the semisweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar. Use a whisk to mix everything until the chocolate has melted completely and you have a smooth, rich mixture. You should see no lumps or chunks at this point.
Now, add the spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and just a pinch of chili powder. Stir them in well to ensure they're evenly distributed throughout the hot chocolate.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This is your final touch, adding a lovely aroma and flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For a touch of elegance and extra flavor, garnish with a cinnamon stick.
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