Baby it's cold outside - Hot Cocoa

Greetings from Missouri!  We have just experienced Snowmaggedon '11!  Since I live in Missouri, that means the entire town has pretty much shut down and everyone is hunkered down in their homes staying all warm and cozy.  That does not exclude us!  However, we have been in hibernation since after the Holidays so this is just another excuse we have if anyone asks us to go out.  While it is absolutely beautiful outside, I am aching for spring time!

Natalie and I decided homemade hot chocolate was in order for this cold gray day.  This recipe takes a few extra minutes but the results are worth the time.

Classic Hot Cocoa



Yields: 2
Ingredients:
2 tablespoon dutch process cocoa
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
pinch of salt
1/4 cup hot water
1 1/2 cup low-fat milk

Directions:
Place cocoa, sugar, and salt in a sauce pan and gradually whisk in the hot water.  Heat over medium-high to rapid simmer and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.  Gradually pour in the milk whisking to incorporate, and heat through but do not boil.  Remove from heat and beat with a hand-crank beater (I did not do this as I do not have one) until slightly foamy, about a minute.  Serve immediately.

Natalie and I topped ours with whipped cream and we broke up peppermint candy in a baggy with the rolling pin and sprinkled them on top of the whipped cream.  Delightful!