Hot Chocolate

This hot-chocolate mixes, made with the finest cocoa and chocolate, are a cut above most store-bought varieties. Fill jars with the mixes, cover the lids with a festive swath of fabric, and include peppermint "stirring" sticks for added flavor and color. To make hot chocolate, combine 1 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of this mix in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until chocolate is incorporated and mixture is warmed through. Serve immediately.

• 3/4 cup quality unsweetened cocoa
• 6 ounces quality semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground clove

Make the mix: Place all ingredients in a food processor fitted with a metal blade and process just until mixture is powdery, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to over-process. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.