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 hot cocoa board quickly became a hit at our family get-togethers, bringing warmth and smiles all around.
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:
- Place 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 Sharing this hot cocoa board with family has created cherished winter moments and new traditions for us all.
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 This hot cocoa board is the perfect blend of fun and flavor to warm up any winter gathering.
Common Questions
- → What ingredients create the rich cocoa base?
The cocoa base combines whole milk, heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for depth and balance.
- → How can I customize the toppings?
Offer a mix of mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, crushed peppermint, toffee bits, and rainbow sprinkles for diverse textures and flavors.
- → What types of treats accompany the cocoa board?
Dippable items include bear-shaped sugar cookies, chocolate-dipped pretzel rods, graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and mini donuts for playful variety.
- → Can this be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Yes, substitute dairy milk and cream with oat or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate to accommodate dairy-free diets.
- → How should the board be arranged for best presentation?
Place toppings in small bowls, arrange dippable treats around, and position bear-shaped cookies centrally to create a visually appealing display.
- → What is the best way to serve hot cocoa here?
Pour the hot cocoa into a heatproof pitcher or insulated carafe and let guests fill mugs, adding cinnamon sticks for stirring and topping with their preferred garnishes.