You know when something simple, but perfectly done, is just the best? Like the perfect simple tomato sauce, or the perfect cup of coffee with rich cream, or the perfect chocolate cake. All simple things, but when one takes the time to do them well, use exceptional ingredients, and pays attention to detail, some thing magical happens. The ingredients become more than what they are into something better, more refined, more elegant.

This hot chocolate recipe is just that. I used a combination of Scharffen Berger milk and 70% cacao chocolate with good cinnamon. Those two ingredients were so good that I didn't even use full fat milk (in fact, I used fat free) and this was still the best hot chocolate I have ever had - super rich, super decadent. To serve it I simply put out some store bought macaroons - that's it. This hot chocolate is so good as dessert you don't even long for the density of a rich cake, the chewiness of a fresh cookie, or the crumble of a tart crust. This hot chocolate stands all on its own.

If you want to add a holiday twist, try some peppermint schnapps or a ginger cookie on the side. If you do decide to make this - please, please use good chocolate. I love Scharffen Berger and strongly recommend it (you can find it at Whole Foods) but if you have another chocolate you like, by all means, go for it. Regardless of the brand, good chocolate is the key to this recipe - so don't skimp!

HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE
(Ina Garten)

2 1/2 c. whole milk (I used fat free milk and the result was still very rich)
2 c. half-and-half (I did not use half and half at all, just fat free milk)
4 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
4 oz. milk chocolate, chopped
1 tbl. sugar
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 tsp. instant espresso or coffee powder
4 to 5 vanilla beans or cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Heat the milk and half-and-half in a saucepan on medium heat to just below the simmering point. Remove the pan from the heat and add both chocolates. When the chocolates are melted, add the sugar, vanilla extract, and espresso and whisk vigorously. Reheat gently and serve immediately. Use a vanilla bean or cinnamon stick to garnish each serving