Starbucks-esque Hot Chocolate

I found this recipe a few months ago and now I'd rather make this than any other kind of hot chocolate. I know it's past hot chocolate time for us in Texas (it's been up to 80 this week!) but I hear the Utahns are still firmly entrenched in winter. Without further ado:

1/4 cup water
2 T. cocoa
2 T. sugar
1 1/2 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine water, cocoa & sugar in 2-cup Pyrex measuring cup. Microwave for 30 seconds. Stir well to create chocolate syrup. Add milk to the mixture {I also add 4 starlight mints for peppermint hot chocolate} and microwave for 2 minutes. Add vanilla extract {and fish out the leftover peppermint} and pour into a 16-oz. mug. Serve with whipped cream {and crushed peppermint pieces}.