Homemade Hot Chocolate

Dear Aunt Sally, 

Do you have a recipe for Homemade Hot Chocolate?

Ben in North Carolina


Dear Ben,

But of course!   First, we need some definitions.  Hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder and is less rich. Hot chocolate is made with melted chocolate and is the sweetest, smoothest thing this side of heaven. For you, my dear friend, I will give you only the very best -- Hot Chocolate!

Hot chocolate is based on ganache. Ganache is nothing more than hot cream poured over chocolate, then stirred to blend. This simple mixture can be turned into frosting, glaze, pastry filling or chocolate truffles. You know that creamy center in boxed chocolates? That's ganache. 

To make hot chocolate, take two ounces ganache (or to taste) and place in a mug. Heat one cup milk over medium heat, being careful not to scorch. Pour hot milk over ganache, stir and enjoy.

Not in the mood to make ganache? No problem! Just pop over to the store and pick up chocolate truffles. This time of year, they can be found on sale just about anywhere, including drug stores and groceries. Take about two ounces of truffles (or to taste) and chop coarsely. Then, pour hot milk over, stir and enjoy.

To make a larger batch, heat milk on stove and add truffles to the milk in the pan. Increase amounts accordingly. 
 
Fondly, 

Aunt Sally