The Best Hot Chocolate EVER!

I've shared this recipe in several places over the years, and it's definitely not original by any means (my adaptation of a Kraft recipe); but thought I'd share it with those unfortunate souls out there who hadn't tried this yet:

The Best Hot Chocolate EVER

2 squares chocolate almond bark (you can use bakers chocolate, but i love bark in this recipe)
1 cup water
1/2 or 1/4 cup sugar (this may be too sweet for some tastes, so reduce in advance if you want!)
3 cups milk
1 tsp vanilla

Melt the chocolate squares in 1 cup of water over medium high heat, stirring.

When melted and boiling, add 1/2 cup sugar. Stir until dissolved for about 3 minutes.

Gradually add the 3 cups of milk, stirring, until heated through.

Turn heat down to low, and add vanilla. Make sure it is well mixed and remove from heat to serve!

Garnish with whipped cream, marshmallows or a candy cane for a peppermint zing!

My family and youth ministry students swear this is the best hot chocolate ever. I just smile at how easy it is to make!! I made a batch for our family today after we finished decorating for Christmas! We keep things fairly simple, little touches all around the house (inside and out) to make sure we keep our focus on why we celebrate my favorite holiday of the year! It greatly reduces stress, budget, etc when we keep it simple at our house and remember that God came and wrapped His holiness in our flesh.
Hope your thanksgiving was amazing and that your Christmas season is filled with joy and hope!