Orange Scented Hot Chocolate

Indulge in the rich, velvety warmth of Orange Scented Hot Chocolate, a delightful blend of luxurious dark chocolate and creamy milk, infused with a hint of zesty orange. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest, this comforting drink offers a perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy brightness, making it an irresistible treat for cold evenings.

Ingredients

• 
  Milk2 cups
• 
  Chocolate4 oz chopped bittersweet or semi-sweet
• 
  Orange peel3 2-inch strips
• 
  Espresso1/2 tsp instant
• 
  Nutmeg1/8 tsp ground

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in heavy medium saucepan. Stir over low heat until chocolate melts. Increase heat and bring just to a boil, stirring often. Remove from heat and whisk untily frothy. Return to heat and bring to boil again. Remove from heat, whisk until frothy. Repeat heating and whisking once again. Discard orange peel. (Can be prepared 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Before serving, bring just to boil, remove from heat and whisk until frothy.) Pour hot chocolate into coffee mugs. Makes 2 servings.