Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480ml) Whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) Water
  • 3 oz (85g) Dark chocolate (60% cacao or higher), finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp (15g) Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cinnamon stick (approx. 3 inches)
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) Ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp (25g) Brown sugar
  • 1/8 tsp (0.5g) Cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp (5ml) Vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Combine the milk, water, and the whole cinnamon stick in the saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium low, stirring occasionally, until the liquid begins to steam but not boil. Note: Boiling milk can separate or burn, which ruins the flavor.
  3. Whisk in the cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
  4. Slowly add the chopped dark chocolate.
  5. Whisk constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the liquid is a smooth, deep mahogany color.
  6. Turn the heat to low.
  7. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes (or use a molinillo) until you see a layer of stable, velvety bubbles on the surface. Note: This aeration is what makes it feel professional.
  8. Stir in the vanilla extract at the very last second to preserve the aroma.
  9. Remove from heat and pour into warmed mugs.