Snow Day Lavender Hot Chocolate

The snow has been falling here in Chicago for 14 hours with no signs of stopping. If you're in search of a hot beverage to warm you up after shoveling, elevate your average hot cocoa with this lavender hot chocolate! It can be made vegan with nutmilk if you choose. Enjoy - and stay warm!

Since lavender is quite fragrant, adjust amount according to your preference. For a creamier hot chocolate, a 1 to 1 ratio of dark to milk chocolate can be used. Makes 2 servings.

hot chocolate:

• 2 cups soy milk
• 3 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao)
• 1/4 teaspoon lavender buds

whipped cream:

• 1/2 cup cold heavy whipping cream or soy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or seeds from 1/4 of a whole vanilla bean pod
• 1/2 tablespoon granulated white sugar or stevia

For whipped cream, place cold cream, vanilla, and sugar into a cold mixing bowl. Beat the mixture with a whisk or mixer until stiff peaks form. keep refrigerated until ready for use.

For hot chocolate, heat soy milk and lavender over medium heat, whisking occasionally until the milk begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let lavender steep for 5 minutes. Strain lavender and return milk to saucepan. Over medium heat, add chocolate and mix until chocolate is melted and incorporated. Whisk milk mixture for 10-20 seconds until frothy. Pour into mugs or bowls and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Via Buzznet