Pin A festive, interactive holiday drink setup featuring rich hot cocoa and a variety of delightful toppings—perfect for gatherings and cozy nights.
This setup always brings warmth and smiles to our holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- Hot Cocoa: 4 cups whole milk, 2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Toppings & Add-Ins: Mini marshmallows, Whipped cream, Crushed peppermint candies, Mini chocolate chips, Holiday sprinkles, Caramel sauce, Chocolate syrup, Candy canes, Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, chocolate chips, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 2:
- Continue whisking frequently as the mixture heats. Once the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is hot (but not boiling), remove from heat.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 4:
- Pour the hot cocoa into a large insulated carafe or keep warm in a slow cooker set to low.
- Step 5:
- Arrange all toppings and add-ins in bowls or jars, setting them out with spoons and tongs for easy serving.
- Step 6:
- Invite guests to fill mugs with hot cocoa and customize with their favorite toppings.
Pin Gathering around this hot cocoa bar has become a cherished family tradition every holiday season.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Add a splash of espresso or Irish cream liqueur for an adult twist. Serve with festive mugs and holiday napkins for extra cheer.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, Whisk, Insulated carafe or slow cooker, Bowls and jars for toppings, Serving spoons and tongs
Allergen Information
Contains Milk, possible soy and gluten (chocolate chips and toppings). Some toppings may contain nuts or gluten check packaging if allergies are a concern.
Pin This hot cocoa bar is the perfect crowd-pleaser with endless customization options.
Recipe Q&A
- → What ingredients create the hot cocoa base?
The base combines whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, semi-sweet chocolate chips, salt, and vanilla extract for rich flavor.
- → How do I keep the hot cocoa warm for serving?
After heating on the stove, transfer the cocoa to an insulated carafe or set it in a slow cooker on low to maintain warmth while serving.
- → Which toppings complement the hot cocoa?
Popular options include mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, mini chocolate chips, holiday sprinkles, caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, candy canes, and cinnamon sticks.
- → Can I adapt the base for dietary restrictions?
Yes. Substitute dairy milk and cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.
- → Any tips for a more festive presentation?
Serve with themed mugs and holiday napkins, and arrange toppings in bowls or jars with serving spoons for a fun, interactive drink bar.