Divine Cocoa

• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup + 3TBS sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• Pinch salt
• 3 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups half and half
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chilled whipping cream

1. Scrape seeds from vanilla beans into food processor; set aside pod. Add sugar to processor and blend for about 10 seconds.
2. Set Aside 3 TBS of vanilla sugar for later use.
3. Transfer remaining vanilla sugar to heavy medium saucepan. Add cocoa powder, water and salt. Whisk til smooth. Whisk over medium heat, just until bubbling begins.
4. Whisk in milk and 1/2 and 1/2. Add vanilla pod; bring mixture to simmer.
5. Remove from heat, whisk in vanilla extract, discard vanilla pod.
6. Beat whipping cream and reserved vanilla sugar in medium bowl until peaks form.
7. Divide hot chocolate between 6 mugs and top with whipped cream.

vanilla bean, cocoa, water, salt, milk, vanilla, chilled whipping cream

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/divine-cocoa-50111394 (may not work)