Cinnamon and Vanilla Hot Chocolate

For the drink element of Blog Party I've decided on something warming and a little decadent for those chilly winter nights, though for those in warmer climes you could turn this into an iced version quite easily.

Cinnamon and Vanilla Hot Chocolate

¾ cup milk
¼ cup cream
50 grams dark chocolate (I used 72%)
ground cinnamon, to taste
vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract, to taste

Place the milk, cream and chocolate into a saucepan and over a low heat allow to come slowly to near boiling point. Stir often to ensure the chocolate melts into the milk rather than stick to the bottom of the pan.

When the chocolate has fully melted add ground cinnamon and vanilla bean paste or extract to taste. Let this infuse for a few minutes at simmering point.

Remove from the heat and using a stick blender, blend until light and frothy.

Pour into cups and enjoy at once!