Pin A whimsical and indulgent hot cocoa board featuring a variety of toppings, treats, and homemade hot chocolate, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive winter nights.
This hot cocoa board has become a favorite at all our winter celebrations, bringing smiles and warm memories with every sip and bite.
Ingredients
- Hot Cocoa: 4 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- Toppings: 2 cups mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup whipped cream, 1/3 cup chocolate shavings, 1/4 cup caramel sauce, 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies, 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/4 cup toffee bits, 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- Dippable Treats: 6 large bear-shaped sugar cookies (store-bought or homemade), 12 chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, 1 cup graham crackers, 1 cup fresh strawberries, 1 cup mini donuts or donut holes
- Extras: 6 cinnamon sticks (for stirring), 6 mugs
Instructions
- Prepare the hot cocoa:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, heavy cream, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and steaming (do not boil). Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Arrange the board:
- On a large serving board or tray, neatly organize the toppings in small bowls or ramekins.
- Place the dippable treats:
- Around the board, alternating colors and shapes for visual appeal.
- Add bear-shaped cookies:
- As the centerpiece for a playful touch.
- Pour the hot cocoa:
- Into a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe.
- Set out mugs and cinnamon sticks:
- For stirring.
- Invite guests:
- To fill their mugs with hot cocoa and customize with their favorite toppings and treats.
Pin Sharing this hot cocoa board has created warm family moments by the fire during the holiday season and beyond.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, Whisk, Large serving board or tray, Small bowls or ramekins, Pitcher or carafe, Mugs
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cream, and chocolate (dairy), wheat (cookies, graham crackers, donuts), possible tree nuts (toffee bits), eggs (cookies, donuts). Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving estimate: Calories 400, Total Fat 18 g, Carbohydrates 55 g, Protein 7 g
Pin This hot cocoa board combines comfort and creativity, making every sip a delight. Perfect for sharing and making memories.
Recipe Q&A
- → What milk options work best for the hot cocoa?
Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich and creamy base, but oat or almond milk are great dairy-free alternatives for a lighter flavor.
- → How can I keep the hot cocoa warm during serving?
Keep the hot cocoa in a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe to maintain temperature while guests serve themselves.
- → What are some unique toppings to enhance flavor?
Try crushed peppermint candies, toffee bits, or rainbow sprinkles to add sweet, crunchy, and colorful layers to the hot cocoa experience.
- → Can I prepare the board ahead of time?
Yes, arrange toppings and treats on the board in advance, then prepare the hot cocoa shortly before serving to ensure freshness and warmth.
- → Are there suggestions for adults enjoying this spread?
Pair the hot cocoa board with a robust red wine or a glass of port to complement the rich chocolate and sweet toppings.
- → How can I adjust for dietary preferences?
Swap dairy milk and cream for plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free chocolate to accommodate vegan or lactose-intolerant guests.
