Hot chocolate was always a special treat when we were kids. My parents would occasionally take us to IHOP after Sunday mass. We’d order our breakfasts (always french toast for me) with thick handled mugs of hot chocolate overflowing with whipped cream. My brothers would scarf theirs down immediately, while I sat there playing with the whipped cream…savoring every bit… purposely taunting them. I played the role of little sister well.

As a mom, I employ the hot chocolate as “special treat” trick every now and then. I’ve learned as a parent that any deviation from the regular routine food-wise creates memories and really rattles a kid- in a good way. I still haven’t gotten over that time my dad tried to make us Italian wedding soup (hilarious fail!) or the bright red strawberry slushies he made us in Tahoe while he & my mom shared margaritas. The food memories stick with you- at least they have for me.  You should have seen Cooper’s face the day I let him eat popcorn while watching a movie in our bed. PURE MAGIC. Also, sorry Casey.

Hot chocolate isn’t something Casey and I partake in. I mean… we went through a sipping chocolate phase a few years ago but for some reason that didn’t last long. Part of it stems from my weird I’d prefer not to drink my calories because I’d rather eat them ideology. But then again, I can easily be persuaded when a drink has liqueur in it. This cherry vanilla hot chocolate is rich, creamy and super decadent.  Umm. Did I mention there’s butter in it!?  And the addition of kirsch (a cherry liqueur) and white chocolate is wonderful. I gave Cooper a kids version and he wouldn’t stop talking about it ALL DAY LONG. See? Food memories formed.

I can’t imagine a more perfect drink for that special someone on Valentine’s day.