Start by brewing your espresso or strong coffee.

In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

In a separate bowl, combine cocoa powder and sugar.

Add the brewed espresso to the cocoa and sugar mixture, stirring well to fully dissolve the cocoa.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Use a milk frother to froth the heated milk until it's light and airy.

Pour the frothed milk into the espresso mixture and stir gently.

If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.