Snow Day Hot Chocolate

There is nothing like a snow day to put you in the mood for hot chocolate!  Last week we had a snow day (actually, more like a cold day because of the negative temperature) and enjoyed staying inside in our cozy pajamas.  I do not think my daughter got out of her jammies at all!

I wanted to make a special treat for the kids and I knew just the thing-homemade hot chocolate.  In a pinch, the instant kind is fine.  But when you have time to make your own from scratch, it makes all the difference in the world.   There is nothing like homemade hot chocolate to warm your heart and soul on a snowy or freezing cold day.

snow day 
Hot Chocolate


Ingredients:
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
Dash salt salt
4 cups milk 
3/4 tsp real vanilla extract
½ tsp of cinnamon plus a couple healthy dashes
handful of marshmallows

Directions:

Pour the milk into a sauce pan over low heat. Warm the milk slowly, but do not let it come to a boil.  

After heating the milk for two to three minutes, add the cocoa powder and sugar into the warmed milk and whisk.  I actually combined the sugar and cocoa powder together in a bowl before adding it to the heated milk.  Continually whisk the milk, sugar and cocoa powder mixture together until creamy and smooth.  Once the mixture is smooth add the vanilla extract, a dash of sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder.  Continue to whisk occasionally so the powder does not sink to the bottom and separate.  When the milk is hot (to your desired temperature), pour it into your favorite mugs and top with marshmallows.  Add a dash of cinnamon on top for added flavor.  

This recipe is quick and easy, which is one reason why it is a go-to in our house.  Another reason is because of the creamy chocolatey deliciousness mixed with the little kick of cinnamon...yum.

With your mug of hot chocolate in your hand, go sit in your favorite chair and snuggle with your favorite blanket!  Do you like my mug?  A Christmas gift from my husband.

What is your favorite snow day recipe?