Rich and Creamy Hot Cocoa

I know, I know, it's practically summer and I'm posting a hot chocolate recipe.  What can I say, I like to live on the edge.  If you're not quite as edgy as me, then just tuck this one away for a few months.  But make sure to come back to it--you will thank me.  As the name attests, this hot cocoa is super rich and creamy with just the right touch of sweetness.  The cayenne provides a subtle undertone of heat without being overtly spicy and the vanilla and nutmeg really round out the flavor profile beautifully.  We like to serve this with homemade baked donuts for dunking, but don't let that stop you from enjoying it with anything really.  Or on its own because hey, why not?

Rich and Creamy Hot Cocoa

Number of Servings: 6
Time to Prepare: 20 minutes

• 2/3 cup cocoa
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 oz bittersweet chocolate (60% cacao or more), grated or finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• large pinch kosher salt
• dash cayenne pepper
• 6 cups milk
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
• 2 tsp vanilla

In a large saucepan, whisk together cocoa, sugar, grated chocolate, cornstarch, salt, and cayenne.  Slowly pour in milk, whisking to incorporate.  Put over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until hot.  Whisk in cream, nutmeg, and vanilla.  Serve warm, topped with marshmallows if desired.

Source: adapted from Smitten Kitchen