While Lounging Poolside...

[Photo by Woman'sDay] Sip This. Hot chocolate may be one of your favorite beverages during the winter time, but now you can enjoy this hot drink during the summer as well. With the temperatures in the Hamptons finally reaching into the nineties and the humidity rising as well an icy cold drink is the perfect way to cool off... -----------

Serendipity in NYC is most famously known for their amazing frozen hot chocolate. However, if you are not in New York or just don't have the time to stop by Serendipity for one, then this Frozen Hot Chocolate recipe, courtesy of Paula Deen, will satisfy your chocolaty craving. Ingredients and directions below:

INGREDIENTS:

3 oz. best-quality chocolate (or a variety of your favorites)

2 tsp. store bought hot chocolate mix

1 1/2 tbs. sugar

1 1/2 c. milk

3 c. ice

Whipped cream, for garnish

Chocolate shavings, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Chop the chocolate into small pieces and melt in a small heavy saucepan or in the top of a double boiler over simmering water.

Stir occasionally until melted. Add the hot chocolate mix and sugar, stirring constantly until blended.

Remove from heat and slowly add 1/2 cup of the milk, stirring until smooth.

Cool to room temperature.

In a blender, place the remaining 1 cup of milk, the chocolate mixture, and the ice.

Blend on high speed until smooth and the consistency of a frozen daiquiri.

Pour into a giant goblet.

Let sit in the freezer for five minutes.

Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

[While Lounging Poolside]