Choice Of Hot Chocolate, Chocolate Milk, Warm Apple Cider Recipe

Combine cocoa and sugar

In a small saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder and granulated sugar so there are no lumps.

Make a paste

Add 2 tablespoons of the cold milk from the measured amount to the cocoa-sugar mixture and stir to form a smooth paste. This prevents clumping when heated.

Heat milk and incorporate chocolate

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Pour in the remaining milk and add the chopped semisweet chocolate and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently until the milk is steaming (do not boil) and the chocolate is fully melted, about 4–6 minutes.

Finish

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.

Cold chocolate milk

For a cold drink, add chocolate syrup and optional cocoa powder and vanilla to the cold milk in a glass. Whisk or stir vigorously until evenly combined. Add ice cubes and serve immediately.

Warm chocolate milk

To serve warm, combine the milk and chocolate syrup in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk continuously until warmed through and syrup is fully incorporated (do not boil), about 3–4 minutes. Serve in a mug.

Combine and heat

In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, orange peel, and optional star anise. Place over medium heat.

Simmer gently

Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil) and reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, for 8–12 minutes to allow the spices to infuse, stirring occasionally.

Strain and finish

Remove from heat. Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the cider into a mug, discarding the spices and peel. Stir in the optional fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Serve warm; garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired.