Spiced Hot Cocoa

On cold winter nights, there’s nothing we find more comforting than curling up by the fire with a mug of homemade hot cocoa. Our narrative photographer, Isa S., recently shared her go-to recipe, which puts a spicy twist on this holiday favorite. If you're feeling extra-festive, we suggest topping your mug with a snowflake marshmallow. No time to brew from scratch? Simply stir your choice of the spices listed below into a cup of ready-made cocoa mix and enjoy!

Spiced Hot Cocoa
Serves 6

6 cups whole milk 
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 
2 whole star anise 
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon allspice
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon 

Bring all the ingredients except for the cocoa powder and vanilla to a simmer in a large saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove the pan from the heat and let it rest for up to 20 minutes before adding the cocoa powder and vanilla. Bring the mixture back up to a simmer and whisk until fully blended. Strain and serve, garnishing with an extra sprinkling of cinnamon on top.