Pour 1 1/3 cups of whole milk (or your chosen milk alternative) into a small saucepan. Set the heat to medium-low and warm the milk gently, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling; you want the milk to be hot but not scalded.
Once the milk is warm, add 1/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 ounce of dark chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously with a whisk or spoon, allowing the chocolate to melt smoothly into the milk. This creates the rich, velvety base of your hot cocoa.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract or 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla bean powder. This step is key to unlocking the distinctive, fragrant flavor that makes Ashers 5 Minute Vanilla Bean Hot Cocoa so special.
Pour the hot cocoa into your favorite mug. Top generously with a swirl of whipped cream—don’t be shy! For the finishing touch, sprinkle optional grated chocolate shavings over the whipped cream to add texture and an extra chocolatey note.
Grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and sip your homemade Ashers 5 Minute Vanilla Bean Hot Cocoa slowly. This drink is best enjoyed fresh, while it’s warm and comforting.