1. Gather all the necessary ingredients for the recipe, including your choice of milk, cocoa powder, sugar, peanut butter, chocolate, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
2. Pour the milk of your choice into a medium-sized saucepan and place it on medium heat. Heat the milk slowly until it begins to steam, avoiding a boil.
3. Add the cocoa powder and sugar to the steaming milk. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to dissolve the dry ingredients completely.
4. Once the cocoa powder and sugar are well mixed, add the peanut butter and chopped chocolate (or chips). Use a whisk to combine them as the chocolate melts and blends with the peanut butter.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Continue whisking for a smooth and creamy consistency.
6. For an even smoother texture, briefly use an immersion blender to emulsify the ingredients until silky. This step is optional but recommended for a professional touch.
7. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness or nuttiness as desired by adding more sugar or peanut butter, based on your preference.
8. Once the mixture is perfectly blended and creamy, pour it immediately into your favorite mug. Serve hot for the best experience.
9. Customize your serving by adding whipped cream, a drizzle of peanut butter, mini peanut butter cups, or other toppings of your choice for extra indulgence.