We love this time of year because that means getting cozy with a cup of hot chocolate! Nothing beats a rich cup of hot cocoa. Here’s our go-to recipe for making hot chocolate from scratch for the ultimate sweet indulgence.

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 pinches of salt
• 2 cups half-and-half or 1 cup whole milk plus 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 ounces bittersweet (60% cacao) chocolate, broken into small pieces or chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Whisk together the cornstarch and salt, and whisk in the milk and cream until cornstarch is dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture just to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly, then reduce the heat and slowly simmer it, whisking frequently 1 minute.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and add the chocolate. Let it rest for 1 minute then whisk the mixture until chocolate is melted and liquid is smooth.
4. Whisk in the cocoa and the vanilla, and if necessary, reheat it over medium-low heat until hot.