John’s Classic Drinking Chocolate Recipe

John’s Classic Drinking Chocolate Recipe

  • 2½ cups whole milk
  • 4 ounces 99% unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  1. Heat the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it is hot to the touch. Whisk in the chocolate and sugar and continue whisking for 1 to 2 minutes until the sugar has dissolved. Whisk in the vanilla and the cinnamon and cayenne, if using. Reduce the heat to low. The chocolate may be made ahead; it will thicken as it sits.
  2. Serve in demitasse cups or mugs depending on desired portion.
  3. Serve in demitasse cups or mugs depending on desired portion.