I know, it’s not February yet, the month of love (and chocolate) but I just can’t wait. Here’s a sweet treat to keep you warm because baby, it’s COLD out there!

Thick and Rich European-Style Hot Chocolate Treat

Sometimes on these cold winter days, nothing (and I mean nothing) quite compares to the pleasure of sipping a sinfully rich cup of sweet, hot cocoa by the fireplace. Now this is loving life!

Makes three servings, ~½ cup each

Ingredients:

2 ¼ cups vanilla soy milk
½ cup natural unsweetened dark cocoa powder (or three squares of unsweetened baking chocolate, melted)
¼ cup sugar (or 1/8 cup Splenda® Sugar Blend)
1 ½ tbsp corn starch

Directions:
In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat, pour immediately into three mugs and top with fat-free whipped topping and a dash of cocoa powder, if desired.

Nutrition (Per serving):
Calories: 190, Fat: 4 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 90 mg, Carbohydrate: 31 g, Fiber: 3 g, Sugars: 22 g, Protein: 7 g

Note: one serving provides 25% of the DV for calcium, 15% for iron and 8% for vitamin A.