Homemade Hot Chocolate with Real Vanilla Whipped Cream

It's been cold here. It has been artic cold. January is a tough month. When the weather is cold, the days are short, and the darkness comes early. We are all looking for a little bit of comfort in these cold and dark days that feel very heavy. I recommend making you and a loved one a cozy mug of homemade hot chocolate.

It is easy to do and can be a simple everyday luxury. Truly, it is like giving yourself a warm hug, especially if you top it with some homemade whipped cream made with our organic vanilla bean paste. 

Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended, but any milk works)

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

• Pinch of salt

• ½ teaspoon Vanilla Bean Project organic vanilla bean paste

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.

2. Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth.

3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and steaming. Do not boil.

4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste.

5. Pour into mugs and top generously with vanilla whipped cream.

Real Whipped Cream with Vanilla Bean Paste

Homemade whipped cream takes less than five minutes—and once you try it, you’ll never go back.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream

• 1–2 teaspoons powdered sugar (to taste)

• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Project organic vanilla bean paste

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a cold bowl.

2. Whip using a whisk or hand mixer until soft peaks form.

3. Spoon or swirl over hot chocolate immediately.