Dark Chocolate Vanilla Bean Hot Cocoa

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (at least 70% cocoa content)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 vanilla bean pod (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
• Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vanilla bean:

   • If using a vanilla bean pod, split it lengthwise with a sharp knife and scrape out the seeds using the back of the knife.

2. Heat the milk and cream:

   • In a saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Add the scraped vanilla bean seeds (or vanilla extract) and the empty vanilla bean pod. Heat until the mixture is just starting to simmer.

3. Add dark chocolate and sugar:

   • Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the chopped dark chocolate, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt to the hot milk mixture. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the sugar is dissolved.

4. Strain the mixture:

   • If using a vanilla bean pod, remove it from the mixture. You can strain the hot cocoa through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining vanilla bean seeds, if desired.

5. Serve:

   • Pour the hot cocoa into mugs.
   • Top each mug with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings, if desired.

6. Enjoy:

   • Serve the Dark Chocolate Vanilla Bean Hot Cocoa immediately and enjoy its rich, decadent flavor!

This indulgent hot cocoa is perfect for cozy evenings or as a special treat during the colder months. The combination of dark chocolate and vanilla bean creates a luxurious and comforting drink that is sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers.