For cocoa powder hot chocolate, In a saucepan, boil milk with sugar, cocoa powder, and optionally, vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix the other portion of milk with cornstarch. Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add a pinch of salt and adjust the sweetness and bitterness by adding more sugar and cocoa powder as desired. Once you reach your desired consistency, serve hot, garnishing with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
For hot chocolate with chocolate, combine milk, chopped chocolate of your choice, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a quick boil and allow it to thicken before serving. Garnish with marshmallows and melted chocolate.
For spiced hot chocolate, In a saucepan, boil milk. Lightly crush cinnamon, cloves, and fennel to release their flavor compounds. Transfer these spices into the same pan along with cocoa powder, chocolate, sugar, dry ginger powder, grated nutmeg, vanilla, orange rind, and the cornstarch milk slurry from the first recipe. Cook until you reach your desired consistency. Strain and serve hot, garnishing with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a whole cinnamon stick.