Ingredients
· 2 1/2 oz good dark chocolate — TCHO or Guittard bittersweet — finely chopped
· 1 cup whole milk
· A pinch of cayenne pepper
· A pinch of cinnamon — optional but recommended
· Brown sugar to taste — start with half a teaspoon
· Whipped cream to serve or if you prefer frothed milk foam
Instructions
1. Warm the milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Do not let it boil. Once warmed, remove from the heat.
2. Add the chopped chocolate and whisk steadily until completely melted and smooth.
3. Return to medium heat, bring to a gentle simmer and continue stirring for a few minutes until the chocolate reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add the cayenne and cinnamon — start with less than you think you need, you can always add more.
5. Taste and add brown sugar if desired — start with half a teaspoon.
6. Whisk until the chocolate is slightly frothy and steaming.
7. Pour into your favorite cup and top with whipped cream.
8. Sit down. Do not rush this, you are worth it.
Notes
Cayenne is not traditional in French drinking chocolate — it is simply something I like. Start with a pinch and adjust to suit yourself. The cinnamon is equally optional but I rarely skip it.
Whole milk makes a richer cup. Some people like to add a splash of heavy cream as well. You can also use a milk alternative but the texture will be thinner. I do not use whipped cream on my chocolate every morning but do add it once in a while.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Cuisine: French