Imagine the richest, most decadent and creamy mug of liquid chocolate. The kind on the movies. The kind you always think you’re going to get when you mix a packet into hot water (or milk) and then always end up feeling a little let down. I’m talking about the kind on the movie The Santa Claus where everyone who drinks it feels soothed and warmed and suddenly, much happier about life. (You think I exaggerate. I do not.) This is quite simply, indulgence at its chocolatey finest.

That’s what this is, friends. I thought everyone made this or at least knew about it, but I made it for some friends last year, and they couldn’t believe it wasn’t on the blog. It’s not my recipe. It’s everywhere you search for Polar Express Hot Chocolate*, but my goal is to create and introduce and help you make the best possible bites, so in that spirit, and that of Papa Gigio (also a nod to the movie The Santa Claus), I present to you THE Hot Chocolate. Make it. Sip it. Indulge yourself and transform a day. You’re welcome.

In a medium-sized pot, add the following ingredients:

6 c. milk

2 c. milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1 1/2 c. heavy whipping cream

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. salt

Warm this on low, stirring frequently so the milk and chocolate don’t scorch to the bottom, until the chocolate has melted. Keep it on low in a crock pot or in a carafe to serve guests. Refrigerate any leftovers and warm to serve! Be creative with toppings! Always whipped cream or marshmallows!!! Drizzle with dark chocolate or sprinkle with broken peppermint candy.

Every year, we have a party with our grandchildren called the Polar Express Party. We read the beautiful book together, they usually get a beautiful bell (which inevitably has gotten lost since last year). We do a Christmas craft or two or three. We watch the movie with chocolate malts and popcorn (a nod to Christian’s grandparents) after a dinner of Cheese Chicken. And then it’s a sleepover. We wake to make waffles with fruit toppings and whipped cream.

All the while, their parents get to make sure Santa is ready for the big day! It’s our very favorite thing we do with our grands and I thought I’d pass it along to you in case you thought this tradition was worth starting. Merry Christmas, everyone! I hope you find the merry and bright and are filled with the love and peace of a Savior this holiday season.

THE Hot Chocolate

 

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Prep time

5 mins

Cook time

15 mins

Total time

20 mins

 

THE Hot Chocolate -- Quite simply the richest, most decadent and creamy mug of liquid chocolate. Go ahead. Indulge.

Alison: That Which Nourishes

Serves: 10 servings

Grocery List

• 6 cups whole milk
• 2 c. milk or semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1½ c. heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• ¼ tsp. salt

Here's how...

1. To a medium pot, add all of the ingredients and heat on low, stirring frequently until the chocolate is fully melted. Serve warm with whipped cream, marshmallows, extra chocolate, and peppermint candy!

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