Rich, steaming hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream and made in my own kitchen is what I’ll be drinking New Year’s Eve.

With a touch of good vanilla, this delicious treat is one that more than makes up for no alcohol to ring in the new year. You’ll have to let me know what you think.

My recipe for hot chocolate starts with 2% organic milk. I know, it costs more than regular milk.  However, you won’t be spending a lot on alcohol, so just think of the money you’re saving!  In addition, because I am a chocaholic, I have to put Ghirardelli cocoa powder in my hot chocolate.  Hershey’s cocoa powder is fine in a pinch, but Ghirardelli cocoa powder really satisfies my chocolate craving!  Lastly, a good vanilla extract is a definite ‘must have’ to add the needed zip to the chocolatey treat.  My hot chocolate recipe is a family favorite, and one that is easy to prepare.

Divine hot chocolate

*serves between 2-4 people

Ingredients:

• 4 cups organic 2% milk
• ¾ teaspoon good vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup sugar
• ¼ cup cocoa powder (use Ghirardelli natural unsweetened cocoa powder for best flavor)
• dash of salt (I use about 8 granules of Kosher salt)

Put milk and vanilla extract in 4 cup Pyrex measuring cup, and microwave about 4 ½ minutes on high (microwave times will vary).

While the milk is being microwaved, combine sugar, cocoa, and salt in a separate bowl.  Whisk the dry ingredients together.  When the milk is hot, check to see if there is skim on the top.  If there is skim, take a spoon or fork and remove it.  Pour about ¾ of a cup of the hot milk into the dry ingredients and whisk together ‘til smooth.  Then add the chocolate mixture to the hot milk.  Whisk again ‘til smooth and combined.  Microwave another 60 seconds.

Pour into two or more cups, and top with whipped cream.  Enjoy!

With a cup of this delicious hot chocolate in hand, instead of getting ribbed for drinking no alcohol on New Year’s Eve, you will be the envy of many.

If you don’t imbibe on New Year’s Eve, what drink do you like to have in hand to welcome the new year?