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Ingredients
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Hot Chocolate Base
To Serve
Method
Hot Chocolate Base
Combine dairy and dry ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Whisk briefly to dissolve the cocoa and sugar into the milk so there are no dry clumps.
Heat gently
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Warm the mixture, stirring frequently, until small bubbles form around the edge and steam rises but it has not reached a rolling boil (about 5–7 minutes). Stir constantly along the bottom to prevent scorching.
Add chocolate
Reduce heat to low. Add 4 ounces finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate (or chips) and a pinch of fine sea salt to the warm milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the liquid is smooth and glossy, about 2–3 minutes.
Finish flavoring
Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired — add up to 1 tablespoon more sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink. Keep hot.
To Serve
Ladle the hot chocolate into 4 mugs, dividing evenly (about 1¼ cups per serving).
Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream (about 2 tablespoons per serving) and a handful of mini marshmallows (about 1/4 cup per serving).
Optional: Sprinkle a little chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder (about 1/4 teaspoon) over the whipped cream for garnish.
Serve immediately while hot. Provide spoons for stirring and a napkin—marshmallows will melt into the drink.