Hot Chocolate

Makes 1 serving

1     ounce bittersweet chocolate,
        finely chopped
1      tablespoon cocoa powder
1      tablespoon granulated sugar
       Tiny pinch kosher salt (optional)
3     tablespoons hot water
⅛  teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¾     cup whole milk
¼     cup heavy cream, whipped to a
        medium-soft peak and lightly
        sweetened to taste

1. Put the chopped chocolate, cocoa
powder, sugar, and salt, if using, into a
large mug. Add the hot water and whisk
until chocolate is melted and mixture is
smooth. Whisk in vanilla.
2. Put the milk into a separate heatproof
mug. Hold the mug in one hand and
place under the steam wand so the
bottom of the wand is just below the
surface of the milk at an angle. Select
the Steam function and press the
START/STOP knob to start steaming.
While holding the mug at an angle,
allow the steam to move the milk
around. Once the milk begins to
increase in volume, lift the mug up
higher so the steam wand immerses
deeper into the milk. When you can
feel that the milk in the mug is quite
hot, press the START/STOP knob to
stop steaming. Tap the mug a few
times to remove any larger bubbles.
3. Slowly pour the steamed milk into the
mug with chocolate mixture. Whisk to
combine. Top the drink with about 2
tablespoons of the whipped cream.
4. Serve immediately.

Hot Chocolate Toddy:
Add 2 tablespoons bourbon or dark rum to the
chocolate mixture.
Espresso Hot Chocolate:
Brew 1 espresso capsule into the chocolate
mixture.