Best Hot Cocoa Ever

‘Tis the season for curling up with a book and a mug of hot chocolatey deliciousness! And friends, I’m here for you with my favorite recipe that I’ve perfected . . . plus I won’t make you read my whole life story before I give you the recipe.

Dark Chocolate & Orange Velvet Cocoa

Ingredients (2 mugs)

• 2 cups whole milk (But I like to use half and half)

• 2 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or honey (to taste)

• ½ tsp fresh orange zest

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

• Tiny pinch of flaky sea salt

• Mini marshmallows

Method

1. Warm the milk gently—just steaming, not boiling.

2. Whisk in cocoa powder and sweetener until smooth.

3. Add the dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and silky.

4. Stir in orange zest, vanilla, and olive oil.

5. Pour into mugs and finish with a mound of mini marshmallows, a light sprinkle of flaky salt, and a dose of cocoa.

Enjoy!