Maple Hot Chocolate

When I first developed this version of hot chocolate, my husband was quite skeptical. But after one taste, he doubted me no more. It really hits the spot on a chilly afternoon, especially when served with cinnamon rolls or doughnuts.

—DARLENE MILLER LINN, MO



START TO FINISH: 15 MIN. • MAKES: 4 SERVINGS


1/4 cup sugar

1 tablespoon baking cocoa

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup hot water

1 tablespoon butter

4 cups milk

1 teaspoon maple flavoring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

12 large marshmallows

In a large saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa and salt. Stir in hot water and butter; bring to a boil. Add the milk, maple flavoring, vanilla and 8 marshmallows. Heat through, stirring occasionally, until marshmallows are melted. Ladle into mugs and top each with a marshmallow.