Sugar Shack Hot Chocolate

No weekend trip to the Styer’s nursery is complete without a visit to the Sugar Shack, chef Keith Rudolf’s haven for all things sweet. When temperatures drop and snow is in the air, the folks at the Shack tempt us with fresh coffee, warm apple cider, and our winter favorite—hot cocoa made with rich, dark chocolate and a surprising hint of spice. We found ourselves wishing that we could have a cup anytime, so we got the inside scoop from Keith on how to mix up a batch at home.

Sugar Shack Hot Chocolate

8 cups whole milk
½ cup half & half
 ¼ cup sugar
½ tsp. cayenne
Pinch cinnamon
Pinch nutmeg
32 oz. 72% dark chocolate, shaved

Mix milk, half & half, sugar, and spices over low heat. Do not boil. Once milk is hot, remove from heat and whisk in chocolate until fully melted. Top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or salted caramel and enjoy!