Homemade Mexican Hot Chocolate

With most of the US under severe winter storms, including our area of North Texas, I decided it was time for homemade hot chocolate, and not just any hot chocolate. Dieters beware: this is the most calorie laden recipe I know of, but it's oh-so-good! It's thick, sweet, and warms you from the inside out!

1 1/2 cups organic granulated sugar
4 tablespoons powdered cocoa
1 stick of butter
1 cup half and half
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon chilli powder

*For those who are lactose intolerant or casein free, leave out the butter and substitute cow's milk for soy, rice, or almond milk. 

In a sauce pan, on medium-high, melt the butter, sugar, cocoa, and half and half together, constantly stirring to avoid clumping. Once everything is completely melted it should resemble a thick chocolate sauce. Continue to stir as your pour in the milk, vanilla, and chilli powder, careful never to bring it to a boil. Remove from heat and serve. Voila! I like to garnish it with whipped cream!