This is the perfect time of year to curl up with a delicious mug of homemade hot cocoa. Top it with delicious cinnamon whipped cream for an added treat!

Hot Cocoa with Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Servings: 4 | Time: 10 minutes active; 10 minutes inactive | Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup (180 ml) sugar or agave nectar
• 1/3 cup (39 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 1/2 cups (840 ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) half-and-half
• 3/4 tsp. (3.8 ml)  homemade vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) boiling water
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) agave nectar
• 1/2 tsp. (2.5 ml) homemade vanilla extract
• 1 drop cinnamon essential oil

Instructions:

1. Combine the cocoa, sugar, and pinch of salt in a saucepan, and add the boiling water.
2. Stir, and slowly bring to an easy boil. Be careful not to let it scorch.
3. Stir in milk and half-and-half. Heat until hot but not boiling.
4. Remove from heat, and add 3/4 tsp. (3.8 ml) vanilla.
5. In a mixer, whip the heavy whipping cream with the agave nectar, 1/2 tsp. (2.5 ml) vanilla, and cinnamon essential oil until fluffy.
6. Divide hot cocoa between 4 mugs, and top with the whipped cream.