Save to Pinterest 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 is a delightful way I like to bring friends together during the holidays with a playful and interactive hot cocoa experience.
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:
- Place the dippable treats around the board, alternating colors and shapes for visual appeal.
- Add bear-shaped cookies:
- Add bear-shaped cookies as the centerpiece for a playful touch.
- Pour hot cocoa:
- Pour the hot cocoa into a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe.
- Set out mugs and cinnamon sticks:
- Set out mugs and cinnamon sticks for stirring.
- Invite guests:
- Invite guests to fill their mugs with hot cocoa and customize with their favorite toppings and treats.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings joy to the family especially during the winter holidays when everyone gathers around to enjoy the cozy treats.
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
Calories: 400, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 55 g, Protein: 7 g (per serving estimate)
Save to Pinterest Serve immediately for the best experience and customize to your guests preferences for endless fun.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chocolate works best for the hot cocoa?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips combined with unsweetened cocoa powder create a balanced, rich flavor while maintaining smoothness.
- → Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free chocolate alternatives.
- → How should the toppings be arranged?
Arrange toppings in small bowls or ramekins on a large board, placing dippable treats around for variety and visual appeal.
- → Are there any suggestions to enhance the cocoa's flavor?
Adding a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon to the hot chocolate mix adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- → What are some ideal pairings with this hot cocoa board?
Pair with robust red wine or a glass of port for adult guests to complement the sweet and spicy notes.