Chicago has endured no shortage of bitter cold during the past few weeks, and tonight we’re gearing up for a big winter snowstorm that will *hopefully* leave enough accumulation for us to pull Evelyn around in her new sled. In my opinion, if we’re going to have cold we might as well have some snow to make everything look pretty!

To make the chilly winter months more tolerable I tend to experiment in the kitchen quite a bit. Nothing like a warming treat to brighten the dreary days! My latest endeavor is a hot chocolate. Aside from the occasional cup of tea, I’m not usually a fan of hot drinks. But, something about my minty, chocolatey concoction helps me appreciate a Chicago winter!

Maureen’s Minty Hot Chocolate

1 1/2 cups milk
1 peppermint tea bag (I like the Trader Joe’s brand)
your favorite hot chocolate powder

Bring the milk to a simmer on the stove (don’t boil it or else you’ll have scalded milk stuck to the pan and it takes FOREVER to clean). Remove from heat and drop in the peppermint tea bag. Let it steep for about 5 minutes. Whisk in the cocoa powder to taste. Pour into a cozy mug and enjoy!