Hot chocolate is not just a childrens drink anymore: In recent years it has become a connoisseurs beverage served in trendy coffeehouses and appearing on upscale restaurant dessert menus. What many people think of as hot chocolate, however, is really hot cocoa - a little chocolate flavor with a lot of hot milk. In Hot Chocolate, Fred Thompson offers 50 recipes for serious hot chocolate, made with high-quality milk, dark, or white chocolate; whole milk, skim milk, cream, water, or milk alternatives; and a variety of flavorings, such as peppermint, orange, cinnamon, coffee, liqueurs, peanut butter, and raspberry - even chai tea! The book provides a fascinating history of hot chocolate and lots of useful tips on how to make fabulous hot chocolate, which kinds of chocolate to use, and how to garnish the drinks, plus bonus recipes for homemade marshmallows and perfect whipped cream. There is also a chapter on preparing high-quality homemade hot chocolate mixes that can be given as gifts. With stylish full-color photos showcasing sumptuous variety, the IACP award-nominated Hot Chocolate is a great gift for anyone who loves chocolate.