Whipping this otherwise old-fashioned hot chocolate creates the illusion of creaminess. To vary this recipe, substitute 1 tablespoon brandy for the liqueur and omit the cinnamon.

Makes 6 servings

ACTIVE TIME: 10 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 15 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

4 1/2 cups low-fat milk, divided
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup coffee liqueur, such as Kahlua or Tia Maria (optional)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Whisk together 1/2 cup milk, sugar, coffee liqueur (if using), cocoa, vanilla and cinnamon in a small bowl until a smooth paste forms. Heat the remaining 4 cups milk in a medium saucepan until steaming. Remove from heat and whisk vigorously. Whisk the cocoa mixture into the milk and pour into mugs.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 149 calories; 4 g fat (2 g sat, 0 g mono); 15 mg cholesterol; 22 g carbohydrate; 6 g protein; 1 g fiber; 94 mg sodium; 32 mg potassium.


Nutrition bonus: Calcium (20% daily value).


1 1/2 Carbohydrate Servings