Active Time

　　10 minutes

　　Total Time

　　20 minutes

　　Cinnamon lends warming complexity to this comforting, creamy cold-weather drink. For a little pick-me-up, a splash of rum certainly wouldn't hurt.

　　Read More: This Drink Will Change the Way You Feel About White Chocolate Forever

　　

Ingredients

Makes 2

　　4 (3") cinnamon sticks

　　⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

　　2½ cups whole milk, divided

　　2 teaspoons cornstarch

　　2 ounces high-quality white chocolate, chopped or white chocolate chips (about 1/3 cup)

　　½ teaspoon vanilla extract

　　Unsweetened whipped cream and ground cinnamon (for serving)

　　

Step 1

Toast cinnamon sticks in a medium dry saucepan over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add salt and 2 cups milk and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let steep 10 minutes.

　　

Step 2

Whisk cornstarch and remaining ½ cup milk in a small bowl. Add to warm milk mixture and heat over medium. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until warmed through, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and add chocolate and vanilla. Let sit until chocolate is melted, about 30 seconds, then stir to combine. Discard cinnamon sticks.

　　

Step 3

Divide hot chocolate between mugs. Top with whipped cream and dust with ground cinnamon.