Chocolate Eggnog Deluxe

Prep: 25 minutes. Cook: 5 minutes. Chill 4 hours

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
• 2 3-inch pieces stick cinnamon
• 1 cup whipping cream
• 1/4 cup port wine or Madeira
• 1/4 cup brandy, cognac or rum
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings or chocolate sprinkles
• Peppermint sticks

Directions:

1. In a heavy large saucepan, stir together sugar and cocoa powder. Stir in eggs, egg yolks, evaporated milk and stick cinnamon. Cook, stirring constantly, over medium heat until mixture thickens slightly and an instant-read thermometer registers 165 degrees; do not let boil.

2. Place the pan in a sink or bowl of ice water and stir for 2 minutes. Remove stick cinnamon; discard. Whisk in whipping cream, port wine, brandy and vanilla. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours before serving (mixture will thicken a little more upon chilling). Garnish each serving of nog with a dollop of whipped cream and top with chocolate shavings and/or chocolate sprinkles. Add a peppermint stick for stirring and to add flavor, if you like. Makes 8 (4-ounce) servings.

Double Chocolate Eggnog Deluxe: Prepare the Chocolate Eggnog Deluxe recipe as directed, except substitute 1/4 cup dark creme de cacao, Godiva Liqueur or other chocolate-flavored liqueur for the 1/4 cup port wine or Madeira.

Nonalcoholic Chocolate Eggnog Deluxe: Prepare the Chocolate Eggnog Deluxe recipe as directed, except omit the port wine and brandy, and substitute 1/2 cup milk.
Nutrition facts per serving: 339 cal, 19 g fat, 211 mg chol, 91 mg sodium, 28 g carbo, 0 g fiber, 8 g pro.