It was 1 degree when I woke up this morning. We waited until it was 5 degree's before we went outside to clear the snow off the driveway.

As soon as that was done it was inside for hot chocolate testing, part 2.

Just a couple of basics to start with. As you will note above, it is important to have a somewhat festive mug for your beverage.

Secondly, I prefer the pan and whisk method of heating the milk over the microwave method. And always milk and never water with your hot chocolate.

There are all kinds of ways to make the cocoa. My favorite is the one I happen to have on hand.

I am an equal opportunity topper. That means I like marshmallows as much as I like whipped cream to crown the cocoa.

This is where it gets tricky. The adult addition to what is perfectly perfect on it's own. In part 1 the other day I tried hot chocolate with Baileys Irish Cream and marshmallows. If you happen to like things sweet (which I do) you will find this completely divine. The perfect thing to drink after dinner for dessert.

Today I went for something a bit unusual, but might be my favorite. Butterscotch Schnapps and hot chocolate with whipped cream on top. Warm and buttery the perfect thing to drink right before you go to bed.

Then there is the classic. The one that is hard to beat. Hot chocolate with Peppermint Schnapps and marshmallows on top. A whole gob of marshmallows. With extra on the side in case you need more.

This is the choice for anytime you are sitting in front of the fireplace. Night, day, early, late, it's a winner. If "Baby it's Cold Outside" happens to be playing in the background, so much the better.

If you need a snack to go with, I suggest Chex Mix. Not the ready-made kind from the store. The kind with butter and Worcestershire sauce and chili powder that is baked in the turkey roaster by Chris every year at Christmas time. This week I intend to test Creme de Cacao, Godiva chocolate liquor, Vanilla vodka, Kahlua, and bourbon. I couldn't get them all done today. Despite my very best efforts.