Tired of store bought? Here's how to make your own hot chocolate.
I've been in a 'make your own' phase for a while now, and while I do feel like convenience is key, I also think that when it comes to something as easy as hot chocolate, it pays to make it yourself. After all, you know what's going into it and you can add (or limit) anything you want. So, here's the base recipe to make a hot chocolate mix that will give you between 8-16 ounces of custom made mix. Then, I'll give you some ways to add a little flare to it.
1 cup of Instant Nonfat Dry Milk
1/4 cup of Cocoa Powder (I use 100% Natural, Unsweetened Cacao)
1/2 cup of Sugar (Granulated, Fine Grain Preferably)
1 tablespoon of Vanilla Powder
Dash of Salt
Once you get everything mixed up (I mix mine in an recycled glass jar) you're going to boil yourself of cup of water and add mix to your liking (I normally get my mug full with water and mix in a tablespoon of mix until it's nice and creamy; it's your choice).
Ways to Spice Up 'Normal' Hot Chocolate
The Traditional Way: Add whipped cream, marshmallows and chocolate for what I would like to call, a "Snowy Mountain".
The Spicy Way: Add about 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and a dash (literally, a dash) of cayenne powder for a zesty hot chocolate.
The Caffeinated Way: Add a mug of coffee instead of water and mix your hot chocolate mix with it. Froth some milk or add whipped cream to the top for a take on your favorite coffee house mocha.
Do you have any special hot chocolate recipes? Share them in the comments below.