There's so much I love about winter: big jumpers, tartan scarves, ice skating, Christmas tree chocolates, novelty shaped shortbred tins, Ugg boots (yes I know, but they are so warm!), Christmas decorations, 3 for 2 gift offers in Boots where I inevitably end up wanting to keep half the purchases for myself....and, the best thing of all, HOT CHOCOLATE.
Costa's black forest hot chocolate is probably one of my favourite things. Ever. But my nearest Costa isn't easily accessible, and seeing as it's not acceptable to sit in my nearest branch dressed in a Pikachu onesie, making it at home seems a better idea!
If you're like me and can't wait until Costa bring out their winter menu, why not try this homemade version instead? Here's what you'll need:
Good quality hot chocolate powder (I use Green and Black's organic)
Milk (whole is lovely but a bit sickly for me at times; semi-skimmed is fine too!)
Monin blackberry syrup
Monin cherry syrup
Squirty cream (is that it's proper name?!) or whipping cream, if you can be bothered to whip it up!
1. Measure out the correct amount of drinking powder according to the instructions.
2. Measure out Monin blackberry syrup (I find for a standard 250ml size hot chocolate, 3 - 4 tsps* give a good flavour) and mix with the drinking powder.
3. Heat the milk. I use my coffee machine's frothing wand, and this really does make a difference in my opinion! If you can, froth the milk in this way, or with a handheld frother.
4. Stir in a little of the milk, then gradually pour the rest, stirring as you go, until the drinking powder has fully dissolved.
5. Top with some cream and 1 tsp of Monin cherry syrup.
*You might want to start off with 2tsps and when you've finished step 4, taste and add extra until you get the intensity you want.
Yes, buying two bottles of monin syrup can set you back £15+, but the bottles are massive and will last a while (unless you're like me and become addicted).
If you've tried this or have your own version, please leave a comment!
Now, I'm wishing it was bed time because just writing about hot chocolate is making me crave one!
