Winter may be on its way out but for now the chilly weather is still with us. Why not warm up with this scrumptious twist on home-made hot chocolate! Creamy, floral and soothing it is sure to hit the spot on a nippy evening.

Makes 2 servings.

What you’ll need:

hot chocolate:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao)
• 1 ounce milk chocolate
• 1/4 teaspoon lavender buds

whipped cream:

• 1/2 cup cold heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract or seeds from 1/4 of a whole vanilla bean pod
• 1/2 tablespoon granulated white sugar

For whipped cream, place cold cream, vanilla, and sugar into a cold mixing bowl. Beat the mixture with a whisk or mixer until stiff peaks form. keep refrigerated until ready for use.

For hot chocolate, heat milk and lavender over medium heat, whisking occasionally until the milk begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let lavender steep for 5 minutes. Strain lavender and return milk to saucepan. Over medium heat, add chocolate and mix until chocolate is melted and incorporated. Whisk milk mixture for 10-20 seconds until frothy. Pour into mugs or bowls and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.