Save to Pinterest A festive, interactive holiday drink setup featuring rich hot cocoa and a variety of delightful toppings—perfect for gatherings and cozy nights.
This hot cocoa bar was a hit with my family, creating lasting memories as everyone enjoyed their unique combinations of toppings.
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.
Save to Pinterest This drink bar became the highlight of our holiday party, bringing everyone together to share laughs and festive spirit.
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 from chocolate chips and toppings Some toppings may contain nuts or gluten check packaging if allergies are a concern
Nutritional Information
Calories 320 Total Fat 18 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 6 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Enjoy customizing your perfect cup of hot cocoa this holiday season it's sure to warm hearts and bring smiles.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How is the hot cocoa base prepared?
The hot cocoa base is made by whisking together milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and semi-sweet chocolate chips over medium heat until smooth and warm, finished with vanilla extract.
- → What toppings can be added to customize the drinks?
Toppings include mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, mini chocolate chips, holiday sprinkles, caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, candy canes, and cinnamon sticks.
- → Can this be adapted for dairy-free preferences?
Yes, substitute milk and cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make a dairy-free version.
- → What tools are needed to serve this setup?
A large saucepan for heating, a whisk, an insulated carafe or slow cooker to keep warm, plus bowls, jars, and serving spoons for toppings.
- → Are there any allergens to be aware of?
Contains milk and possibly soy and gluten from chocolate chips and toppings. Some toppings may contain nuts or gluten; check labels if allergies are a concern.