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This cozy, comforting cup of homemade hot cocoa is rich, creamy, and just sweet enough. Perfect for chilly days, late-night cravings, or as a treat while curled up with a good book.

🍴 Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 1 cup whole milk (or milk of choice)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings

🔥 Instructions

Heat the Milk:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until steaming but not boiling.

Mix the Cocoa and Sugar:
In your mug, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. This helps break up lumps.

Combine:
Add a splash of the hot milk to the cocoa mixture and stir until smooth, forming a thick paste. Slowly whisk in the remaining milk until well combined.

Add Vanilla and Serve:
Stir in the vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Top with your favorite add-ons and enjoy immediately.

📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Best Simple Hot Cocoa for One

• ☕ Ceramic Mugs – Set of 2 — Stylish and sturdy mugs perfect for sipping something warm and wonderful.
• 🍫 Ghirardelli Unsweetened Cocoa Powder — Premium cocoa for rich, chocolaty flavor.
• 🥛 Milk Frother Wand — Create café-style cocoa with perfectly foamed milk on top.
• 🧁 Mini Marshmallows — The classic finishing touch—because hot cocoa isn’t complete without them.

💡 Helpful Tip: For an ultra-luxe cup, substitute half of the milk with half-and-half or stir in a few chocolate chips to melt right into the cocoa. Want to make it fancy? Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a Mexican hot chocolate twist.