Ingredients

• 4 (3") cinnamon sticks
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk, divided
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 ounces high-quality white chocolate, chopped or white chocolate chips (about 1/3 cup)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Unsweetened whipped cream and ground cinnamon (for serving)

Instructions

1. Toast cinnamon sticks in a medium dry saucepan over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add salt and 2 cups milk and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let steep 10 minutes.
2. Whisk cornstarch and remaining 1/2 cup milk in a small bowl. Add to warm milk mixture and heat over medium. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until warmed through, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and add chocolate and vanilla. Let sit until chocolate is melted, about 30 seconds, then stir to combine. Discard cinnamon sticks.
3. Divide hot chocolate between mugs. Top with whipped cream and dust with ground cinnamon.