Christmas Cappuccino

Ingredients

 * 1 1/2 cup Espresso beans
 * 3 cup Boiling water
 * 2 tbsp Sugar
 * 1 vanilla bean, split
 * 4 cup milk
 * 4 oz. bittersweet chocolate chopped
 * whipped cream - optional

Directions

 * 1) In a coffee mill, finely grind the beans.


 * 1) In a coffee maker, brew the espresso with the boiling water.


 * 1) Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the Sugar and cinnamon and set aside.


 * 1) Using a small knife, scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into a medium saucepan.


 * 1) Pour in the milk and scald over moderate heat, about 5 minutes.


 * 1) Remove from heat, add chocolate and stir until melted.


 * 1) Cover and keep warm over very low heat.


 * 1) Divide the hot espresso into 4 cups.


 * 1) In a blender, begin whipping half of the warm chocolate milk at low speed.


 * 1) Gradually increase the speed to high and blend until frothy, about 1 minute.


 * 1) Pour the chocolate milk into the cups of coffee, stir briefly and top each serving with some of the milk froth.


 * 1) Sprinkle the reserved cinnamon sugar on top.


 * 1) Serve immediately with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.