Cinnamon Hot Chocolate

 

As the days grow crisper I find myself craving hot chocolate for an after-dinner treat. So, because everything is better homemade, I decided to make my own batch of hot chocolate powder that will last for months and months. It is so much more flavorful and delicious than pre-made cocoa mix and it has a special ingredient, too.

3 1/2 cups sugar

2 1/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tablespoon salt

3 tablespoons cinnamon (I would add up to double this amount next time)

Whisk all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar. 

To serve, heat milk in a mug and stir in about 

2 heaping scoops of the cocoa mix. 

The bitterness and spice of the cinnamon is a perfect contrast to the sweet chocolate, so feel free to add as much cinnamon to the mix as you'd like. I like to make homemade, freshly whipped cream to go on top, and I finish it with a dusting of cinnamon.

Update: I just thought of a very cute gift idea for this hot cocoa mix that I may try this Christmas. Fill glass mason jars with this powder, along with a handful of mini marshmallows stirred in for an extra festive twist. Tie with a bow and you have a beautiful homemade gift!