Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• pinch kosher salt
• generous pinch cayenne pepper or hot chili powder
• 3 1/2 ounces chopped dark chocolate
• whipped cream to serve, optional

Directions

Combine milk, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, salt and cayenne (or chili powder) in a medium pot. Heat over medium heat until simmering. Reduce the heat a little and gently simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. Add chopped chocolate. Cook, whisking, until the chocolate is fully melted and emulsified. Taste for sweetness and spice. Adjust as needed. Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Add whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!