Chocolate-y Christmas Cafe au Lait

Source: Food Network, recipe by Emeril Lagasse

adapted by http://theresalwaysthyme.blogspot.com

1 1/2 cups whole milk

2/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder

2 ( 2-inch) cinnamon sticks

1 strip orange peel, about 1/2 inch by 3 inches

10 whole cloves

2 to 2 1/2 cups hot brewed strong coffee

1/4 cup cold heavy cream

ground cinnamon, for garnish

cocoa, for garnish

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, 2/3 cup of the sugar, and cocoa until smooth. Add the cinnamon sticks, orange peel and cloves and bring to a simmer, stirring, to dissolve the sugar and prevent the cocoa from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat, cover, and let steep for 10 minutes.

In a medium bowl, whip the cream with the remaining 1 teaspoon sugar until thick and frothy, and peaks form. Set aside.

Strain the milk mixture into a coffee pot or carafe and add 2 cups of the hot coffee (2 1/2 cups for stronger coffee flavor, to taste). Pour into cups or small mugs and top each with a dollop of the sweetened whipped cream.

Serve immediately.

For a stronger coffee flavor, add another 1/2 cup hot coffee to the mixture.