Pin this 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 board has become a festive favorite in my family, bringing warmth and smiles to every winter night.
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 this This recipe always brings my family together around the table, creating sweet memories and joyful chatter during chilly evenings.
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
Estimated per serving: Calories 400, Total Fat 18 g, Carbohydrates 55 g, Protein 7 g
Pin this This hot cocoa board is the perfect centerpiece for cozy celebrations and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary need.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the hot cocoa warm during serving?
Use a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe to maintain temperature, and gently stir with cinnamon sticks to keep the warmth consistent.
- → Can I substitute dairy ingredients for a dairy-free option?
Yes, replace milk and heavy cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate alternatives to keep it creamy and delicious.
- → What toppings pair well with the hot cocoa?
Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, peppermint candies, and toffee bits offer a variety of sweet and textured contrasts.
- → Are there suggestions to add warmth or spice to the cocoa?
Add a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon to the cocoa mixture to introduce a subtle spicy warmth that complements the chocolate flavor.
- → What treats can I use if I don’t have bear-shaped cookies?
Replace bear-shaped cookies with festive biscuits, ginger snaps, or any favorite cookie shapes for a playful centerpiece.