Nor'easter Hot Chocolate

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When there's a blizzard outside, nothing can warm you up inside better than a nice frothy cup of hot chocolate. But skip the powder and hot water. Make some REAL rich hot chocolate. It's worth the extra effort. What else have you to go do anyway? There's a blizzard out there!

REAL Hot Chocolate
This recipe is a variation of one on Martha's site.

Serves 2 -3 (double the recipe to serve more)

For Hot Chocolate:
1 cup milk
5 ounces bittersweet chocolate
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 vanilla bean or 1 teaspooon vanilla extract
Fresh grated nutmeg to taste

Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar

How to:

For Hot Chocolate:
1. Heat milk until scalding.
2. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. (Make Whipped Cream while milk is resting - recipe below).
3. Strain milk, put back on medium heat.
4. Pour in chocolate and whisk until blended. Optional: to make the hot chocolate frothy, use a hand mixer or wire wisk.
5. Pour into cups and add a dollop or two of whipped cream.
6. Top with grated nutmeg

For Whipped Cream:
7. Combine sugar and milk in a large mixing bowl.
8. Turn mixer on high until peaks form.

Get cozy on the couch with an afghan, watch an old movie and sip this cup of heaven. Enjoy!