We can all agree on the fact that hot cocoa or hot chocolate is just about the best winter treat to have. Aside from its rich and sweet flavor, it’s warm and comforting while also being so simple to make. There really is nothing like curling up on the couch with a warm blanket and with a mug of hot chocolate in your hands. It truly changes everything and makes things so much better. While classic hot chocolate is almost always the best option, hot chocolate has so many different variations that are suitable for all kinds of occasions. So, in addition to a classic hot cocoa recipe, we’ve added a few other versions as well to suit all your needs. Instead of having the same hot cocoa time and time again, why not mix things up a little and try something new? If you’re having people over, you’ll be able to impress them with your upgraded hot cocoa! Whether you prefer something sweeter, something colder, something naughtier, or even something more flavorful, these recipes will answer all those needs. Next time you’re feeling like having a hot sweet drink, try one of these recipes to treat yourself and upgrade your hot chocolate experience. Don’t settle for any old hot chocolate. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can branch out and try things that aren’t in the recipes. Think of your favorite sweet toppings and try them with hot chocolate! You might discover something amazing.
Ingredients:
For The Classic Version
- 4 cups of milk
- 200g milk chocolate
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup of brown sugar
- a pinch of salt
- whipped cream for serving
For The Frozen Version
- classic hot chocolate
- vanilla ice cream
- whipped cream
For The Grownup Version
- classic hot chocolate
- 1-2 tablespoons of alcohol of your choice
- whipped cream for serving
- cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for serving
For The Spiced Version
- classic hot chocolate
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- whipped cream for serving
- sprinkles
How To:
- To make the classic hot chocolate, combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan. Allow them all to come to a gentle simmer over low-medium heat.
- Stir the mixture to help the chocolate melt and the sugar to dissolve.
- Serve with whipped cream on top.
- For the frozen, combine the classic hot chocolate with vanilla ice cream. Blend it all until the mixture is smooth. Pour into glasses before topping each one with whipped cream and sprinkles.
- For the grownup, add the alcohol to the classic hot cocoa. Then, pour it into mugs and top them off with some whipped cream as well as either cocoa or chocolate shavings.
- For the spiced, add all the spices to the classic hot cocoa while it’s still simmering on the fire. Pour it into mugs and top with whipped cream and either cocoa or chocolate shavings. If you’re feeling extra, you can add a cinnamon stick to each mug as well.
- Serve and enjoy!