I just got back from 2 wonderful weeks in northern Italy. The downside of a visit to Italy in late fall is that it’s a little chilly, but the upside is discovering the fabulous hot chocolate drinks this country has!  

Italians nestle up to a thick, dense cup of hot chocolate in the afternoon. You can use whole milk or cream like they do, or even skim milk or soy milk, if you prefer. Whatever your preference, these five hot cocoa recipes are sure to melt the winter chill away and become a holiday staple in your home.

Classic Italian Hot Chocolate
-Recipe courtesy of Vanini/ICAM chocolates, vaninicioccolato.it

A decadently delicious Italian hot chocolate. Make big batches so it’s on ready to use throughout the winter. For variety, you can add orange zest or a dash of cinnamon to the hot milk.

Makes 2 Servings

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar

2 ounces quality dark chocolate, such as Vanini 70%, finely grated

12 ounces whole milk

Preparation:

1. Mix the cocoa powder, sugar and dark chocolate in a small bowl. This dry mix can last for months.
2. Bring the milk to a low boil and mix with the dry ingredients.
3. Divide between two mugs and enjoy!

“Baci” Hot Chocolate
-Recipe courtesy of Perugina, nestle.it

If you swoon over Baci, those creamy candies filled with hazelnut genache topped with a whole hazelnut and covered in dark chocolate, then this is the hot chocolate for you!

Makes 2 Servings

Ingredients:

4 teaspoons hazelnut butter or peanut butter

3 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

12 ounces milk

Preparation:

1. In a small saucepan combine the hazelnut or peanut butter, chocolate and milk. Simmer, stirring to melt the chocolate, until very warm. Divide between two mugs and enjoy!

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