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Grandma's Old-Fashioned Hot Cocoa

This isn't your average packet of instant cocoa—Grandma made hers from scratch with real chocolate and a secret ingredient that makes it extra special. It's thick, velvety, and absolutely perfect for warming up little hands (and grown-up hands too!) after playing in the snow. Trust me, once you try making it this way, you'll never want the powdered stuff again!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate finely chopped (Grandma's secret ingredient!)
  • Whipped cream and mini marshmallows for serving

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, water, and salt over medium heat until smooth and combined.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, whisking constantly for about 2 minutes until it forms a thick chocolate syrup.
  3. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Add the chopped chocolate and continue stirring until completely melted and the cocoa is hot but not boiling.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and mini marshmallows. For an extra special touch, add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a candy cane stirrer!