This dessert can be made vegan by using soy milk instead of regular milk.

In a medium bowl, lightly beat ground flaxseeds with warm espresso using a fork. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups milk, 1/3 cup sugar and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring every now and then.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk the remaining 1/3 cup sugar, cocoa powder and cornstarch. Then whisk in the remaining 3/4 cup milk until blended. Whisk the simmering milk mixture into the cocoa mixture.

Pour the mixture back into the saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk it constantly, until thickened and glossy — about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Whisk about 1 cup of the hot cocoa mixture into the beaten flaxseeds. Add this mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat. Whisk it constantly, until steaming and thickened — about 2 minutes. Do not let the mixture boil. Whisk in the vanilla extract. Serve warm.

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds, also called flaxseed meal
• 3 tablespoons brewed espresso
• 2 1/4 cups skim milk, divided
• 2/3 cup sugar, divided
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract