No one loves a creamy cup of cocoa more than Chef Lea McIntosh! But you know her…she’s always whipping up ways to break from traditional recipes. Here are two of her latest hot chocolate blends. Bon Appetweet!

Cocoa De Leche
Serves One

Ingredients:
1 cup milk
1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
5 tablespoons dulce de leche caramel
pinch of salt to taste

Combine milk, cocoa powder, ducle de leche, and pinch of salt in a small saucepan; while continuously whisking bring to a simmer. Serve hot.

Note: La Lechera Brand Dulce De Leche can be found at most Mexican grocery stores and is an affordable alternative to the gourmet Dulce De Leche products.
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Nutty Cocoa
Serves One

Ingredients:
1 cup milk
1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

Combine milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and peanut butter in a small saucepan; while continuously whisking bring to a simmer. Serve hot.

Note: Ghiradelli Unsweetened Cocoa is available at most markets.

Check out our recommendation for a gift with a twist for hot cocoa crazy fans!

Italian Cream Soda
Makes: 1
2 ounces flavored Torani syrup
1 cup club soda
2 ounces half and half
ice

Fill a 16 oz glass halfway with ice. Add 2 ounces Torani syrup and 1 cup club soda. Top with 2 ounces half and half and serve chilled with a straw.

Photos By Allure West Studios