Over the Top-olate Hot Chocolate

For those who love thick, dark chocolate, this warm drink is like a favorite truffle already melted in your mouth.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

12 cups chocolate milk (the highest quality possible, as it will have the best flavor)

4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

12-oz bag semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips

2 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon sugar

1. Pour chocolate milk into the slow cooker. Stir in 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined, then add the chocolate chips and stir again. Cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

2. To make chocolate whipped cream: In a large bowl, whip heavy cream with beaters until it starts to thicken. Add sugar and additional tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder. Beat until the whipped cream is stiff, about 5 minutes.

3. Serve hot chocolate in mugs, and top with dollops of chocolate whipped cream.