Hot chocolate is always good, but with a small adjustment, it becomes even more interesting. Combining dark chocolate with warm milk, cream, and a dash of red wine creates a drink that is perfect for cold days. Rich, creamy, and meant to be enjoyed slowly, preferably from a large mug.

Ingredients

• 500 ml whole milk
• 100 ml whipping cream
• 100 g dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or to taste
• Red wine to taste
• Shaved chocolate

Supplies 

• Steel pan
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• Mugs

Preparation

• Pour the milk and heavy cream into a saucepan and heat over low to medium heat. Make sure the mixture is warm, but not boiling. 
• Finely chop the dark chocolate. Add the chocolate, cocoa powder, and sugar to the warm milk. Stir gently until everything has melted and you have a smooth, creamy chocolate milk. 
• Add a dash of red wine and heat for a few more minutes. Keep stirring so that the flavor is evenly distributed and the chocolate milk does not get too hot. 
• Pour the chocolate milk into the mugs and sprinkle with shaved chocolate. 

This chocolate milk can easily be adapted to suit the occasion. Keep it alcohol-free or add a little more red wine when serving it as an evening drink. By heating it gently and not allowing it to boil, it retains its full flavor and remains pleasant to drink.