Hot Cocoa

(4 to 5 servings)

Rich and chocolaty — like Mom used to make.

3 tbsp cocoa

½ tsp powdered stevia extract

4 to 5 cups of soymilk or milk

2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix the cocoa and stevia extract together in a medium-sized saucepan. Add about ½ cup of the soymilk or milk to the dry ingredients to make a paste. Gradually thin the paste with about ½ cup of the milk. Add the hone or maple syrup while bringing to a low boil. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the rest of the milk to the desired richness. Add the vanilla and return to burner until heated through.

Note: Be careful not to scorch the cocoa. Use a pan with a heavy bottom and watch closely.

Variation: You may add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.

(Excerpted with permission from Stevia: naturally sweet recipes for desserts, drinks and more!, by Rita DePuydt – Book Publishing Co.)