How to Make White Chocolate Hot Cocoa

White chocolate actually contains no chocolate. It is made by blending cocoa butter with milk and sugar using the same methods used to create milk and dark chocolate. Even though it's not the real deal, white chocolate has a huge fan base. This recipe puts a twist on classic hot cocoa, and is sure to please any white chocolate lover.

Things You'll Need

• 8 oz. white chocolate
• 3 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 pieces of star anise
• 1 tsp. real vanilla extract
• Large mixing bowl
• Heavy saucepan
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Gather all the measured ingredients. Chop the chocolate into small pieces using a sharp knife and cutting board. Place the chopped white chocolate in a large mixing bowl, preferably one with a pouring spout.

2. Heat the milk in a heavy sauce pan over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Take care not to boil or scorch the milk.

3. Add the cream and the star anise. Turn up the heat slightly and continue to heat the milk just to the point of boiling. Remove the pan from the heat.

4. Pour the heated milk and the star anise over the chopped white chocolate. Whisk the mixture until the chocolate melts completely. Whisk in the vanilla.

5. Divide the white chocolate cocoa among 4 mugs, and float a piece of star anise in each. Garnish the beverage with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, or add a cinnamon or peppermint stick.

Resources

• White chocolate cocoa recipe