During the cold weather, I find amazing solace when I curl up with my favorite book and a cup of hot chocolate. I love hot chocolate because it energizes and rejuvenates me, provides focus and clarity to my thought process, and allows me to disconnect from the buzz of the outside world. All I need to do is use a few simple ingredients like chili powder, cinnamon and milk, and whisk together with bittersweet chocolate and cocoa powder. I love savoring the drink time and time again, and I hope you love it too.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh cream or cream fraiche (optional)
• ½ teaspoon paprika powder
• 1 cinnamon stick, small size
• 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust according to taste)

Method:

Heat a medium-size saucepan on low-medium heat. Add chocolate, cocoa powder, chili, and sugar. Cook, then stir rapidly until chocolate begins to melt. At this point, gently combine milk, cinnamon stick, and heavy whipping cream. Simmer for 2 minutes until bubbles appear. Turn off the heat and serve hot with sour cream.