SANTA HOT CHOCOLATE



To begin, there is certain etiquette that must be followed when drinking Santa Hot Chocolate...

First, you must have the correct size cup and saucer.  Above,  you'll see my youngest daughters set of sipping cups. Both of my daughters received her own set of sipping cups to carry the tradition to the next generation, when they were about 10 years old.  A time honored right of passage in our family.

Secondly, only a cinnamon stick or candy cane may be used to stir the chocolate, that's where the magic begins...

Lastly, never gulp or "shoot" the chocolate...it can be very dangerous to someone not accustom to the REAL DEAL!!  Sip the chocolate like a fine aged brandy and linger in the moment of Christmas cheer!

Recipe:


2 cups table cream (½ & ½)
1 ½ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup cocoa powder (I use Dove but any good brand will suffice)
⅓ cup milk chocolate chips
2 sticks cinnamon or 1 teaspoon ground
pinch sea salt
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract


In a heavy sauce pan heat table cream, 1 cup whipping cream and sugar until sugar is dissolved, add the cocoa powder and whisk until mixed thoroughly, add the chocolate chips and stir until melted, add salt and 2 cinnamon sticks and simmer for 5 minutes.


Cinnamon Cream
using remaining ½ cup heavy whip cream, blend with a hand mixer till thick add ¼ stick fresh ground cinnamon, vanilla and stir


Serve chocolate in sipping cups with a cinnamon or peppermint stick for stirring, add a small dollop of cinnamon cream and grate fresh cinnamon over the top...


Finally, be prepared for a magical experience!!

♥I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year♥