It's a snow day here in Virginia, with eight inches on the ground already, and the snow still falling. (
Very unusual for us!) To celebrate the winter weather, here's a perfect recipe for a day like today. I tore this out of a gardening magazine (of all places!) almost ten years ago and have been enjoying it on special wintery occasions ever since.
Spicy Hot Cocoa
Blend 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp fine-ground pure chile powder, 3/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt. Add 2 cups water, and simmer for 4 minutes. Stir in 6 cups milk and reheat. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract, whisk, and pour into warm mugs. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Thanks to calexcyou on stock.xchng for the great photo!
ReplyDeleteAh, an awesome concoction for post-sledding! Can you recommend a particular type of liquor to add to the mix? :)
ReplyDeleteHmmm. My first impulse with hot cocoa is always Kahlua. But I sort of wonder if something orangey (e.g., Grand Marnier) might be nice with the spices in here. Let me know what you try, Susan!
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