In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat until it starts to steam. Do not let it boil.
2 cups whole milk
Add the chocolate chips to the pan and whisk continuously until the chocolate has completely melted and incorporated into the milk.
1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
Once the chocolate has melted, add the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 pinch salt
Continue to heat the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking occasionally, until it is hot and steamy. Be careful not to let it boil. When it reaches the temperature you prefer, remove it from the heat.
Once the hot chocolate is hot and steamy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to chocolate mixture. You'll want to start with just about 1/8 teaspoon. If you want it spicier, you can add a pinch more. Whisk well to incorporate the spice.
dash of cayenne pepper
Before serving, taste the hot cocoa and adjust the sweetness or spices if needed. You can add more sugar or cinnamon if desired.
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Add mini marshmallows or a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Serve and enjoy!
whipped cream, ground cinnamon, mini marshmallows