HOT CHOCOLATE SAUCE
Source: The Kids' Holiday Baking Book: 150 Favorite Dessert Recipes from Around the World by Rosemary Black
Servings: 4-8

My mother made this sauce for us as a special treat. Its excellent over strawberry ice cream for Valentine's Day.

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
1 1/2 squares unsweetened chocolate, finely shaved
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In the top of a double holler over simmering water, heat the butter and chocolate until they melt. Stir until smooth.

Stir in the cocoa, sugar, cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer but do not boil. The sauce should be thick.

Remove from the heat, stir in the vanilla, and serve arm.