January 31 is National Hot Chocolate Day, but there is certainly more than one day a year that calls for this delicious treat!

While there are plenty of pre-sweetened hot chocolate mixes available, it is hard to beat homemade. The sugar in this recipe and in the pre-sweetened mixes not only cuts the bitterness and enhances the sweetness and flavor of the cocoa, it also increases the thickness of the beverage giving it the fullness you expect in every sip.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 4 cups milk
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream or marshmallows for serving

Directions

1. Over medium heat, warm milk in saucepan on stovetop.
2. Once milk is warm, stir in sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Heat to desired temperature and serve. Top with marshmallows or whipped cream and, for a little something extra, sprinkles!