1. 1. In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming and just shy of boiling.

2. 2. Once the milk is steaming, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chunks of dark or bittersweet chocolate. Stir until smooth and creamy.

3. 3. If using, stir in the leftover vanilla bean pod and espresso powder.

4. 4. Pour the chocolate mixture into a French press, being careful not to overfill it.

5. 5. Pump the plunger of the French press up and down several times to create a rich, frothy texture.

6. 6. Carefully pour into mugs and optionally top with whipped cream or cocoa powder.