Save 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 my go-to for winter parties because everyone loves picking their favorite toppings to customize their hot cocoa.
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.
Save This board always brings my family together especially on cold winter evenings when we gather around and share stories.
Preparation Tips
Make the hot cocoa just before serving to ensure it stays warm and fresh or keep it warm in an insulated carafe.
Customization Ideas
Try adding a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon to the cocoa for extra warmth and pair with a robust red wine or a glass of port for adults.
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.
Save Enjoy crafting your perfect hot cocoa board and sharing warm moments with loved ones.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the hot cocoa base rich and creamy?
Combine whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Heat gently while whisking until smooth and steaming without boiling.
- → What toppings complement the hot cocoa board?
Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, crushed peppermint candies, mini chocolate chips, toffee bits, and rainbow sprinkles all add flavor and texture.
- → Which treats pair well for dipping or enjoying alongside?
Bear-shaped sugar cookies, chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and mini donuts provide a variety of textures and flavors.
- → Can this be adapted for dairy-free diets?
Yes, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate to maintain the creamy texture and flavor.
- → How can I add a festive or spicy twist to the cocoa?
Add a pinch of chili powder or cinnamon to the hot cocoa mixture for extra warmth and seasonal spice.
- → What tools are essential for preparing and serving?
A medium saucepan and whisk for making cocoa, a large serving board for arranging toppings and treats, and mugs with cinnamon sticks for serving.