Simple Hot Cocoa for One

Ingredients

For 1 servings

• •2 c. à soupe unsweetened cocoa powder
• •1 –2 Tbsp. sugar
• •Kosher salt
• •1 tasse milk or any combination of milk, half-and-half, or cream, divided
• •0.25 c. à café vanilla extract
• •Marshmallows or Sweetened Whipped Cream for serving (optional)

Method

1. 1.Whisk 2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder, 1–2 Tbsp. sugar, a pinch of kosher salt, and about 2 Tbsp. from 1 cup milk or any combination of milk, half-and-half, or cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat on the stovetop until cocoa and sugar are dissolved, 1–2 minutes. Whisk in the remaining milk and heat mixture over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until it is hot, about 4 minutes more. Stir in ¼ tsp. vanilla extract, pour into mugs, and top with marshmallows or Sweetened Whipped Cream (if using). Editor’s note: This recipe for hot cocoa was first printed online in December 2011 as part of ‘Gourmet Live,’ an Epicurious exclusive extension of the magazine. Head this way for more of our favorite hot drinks →