Whats better than a cup of steaming spiced hot cocoa?

One thats ready and waiting for you after a long afternoon of sledding or skiing.

If you have cheesecloth, bundle the spices inside of a square and secure it with kitchen twine.

Slow-Cooker Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

Photo: Greg DuPree

That way you wont have to strain.

Heres an idea: use any leftover hot cocoa as a milk substitute in your morning coffee.

This recipe was developed by Deb Wise.

Ingredients

3(4-in.)

cinnamon sticks

1(2-in.)

Whisk together cocoa and 12 cup of the milk in a small bowl until smooth.

Cover and cook on LOW 212 to 3 hours; strain.

Serve hot chocolate with marshmallows, whipped cream, and cinnamon.