Photo: Jim Franco

Brrr! The weather outside is frightful in much of the South, and a cup of something warm and creamy beckons.  We’ll take Chocolate Latte, thank you. Curl up on the couch with a cup, and bask in the cozy glow of the Christmas tree–you’ve earned a sweet reward. 

Chocolate Latte
Makes 51/4 cups
Hands-on time: 10 min., Total time: 10 min.

• 4 cups strong brewed hot coffee
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Garnish: whipped creamHeat coffee, half-and-half, chocolate syrup, sugar, and vanilla in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often, 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Garnish, if desired.