I love flavored coffee, especially this time of year, and my favorite is anything with chocolate, the richer the better. For my morning cup of Joe, I stick to organic half and half or natural creamers, because most brands like Coffee-mate and International Delight are made with mono or di-glycerides or hydrogentated oils, aka trans fats. Surprisingly, it is easy enough (and cheap) to make your own coffee creamer, all you have to do is heat up half and half and add whatever sweeteners and flavors you like. Here is what I used:

3 1/2 cups of half and half

6 Tbl hot cocoa mix (made with real chocolate)

3 Tbl sugar

1 tsp bourbon vanilla

You could also add cinnamon, nutmeg, caramel, almond or hazelnut extracts, or whatever your heart desires.

Pour half and half into a pan and slowly heat up. Be sure to get a reseal-able half and half container for easier storage when you are done.

Add chocolate, sugar, and vanilla. Mmmm chocolate.

Whisk together, remove from heat and let cool.

Use a funnel to pour your creamer back into the original container. Give it a quick shake before using.