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.
I love setting up this cozy bear hot cocoa board for family and friends during winter; it brings warmth and joy to any gathering.
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 hot cocoa board always creates memorable family moments around the fireplace during chilly winter 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
Calories: 400, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 55 g, Protein: 7 g (per serving, estimate).
Save This hot cocoa board is the perfect final touch to any festive gathering, delivering warmth and delight in every sip.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of milk is best for creamy hot cocoa?
Whole milk combined with heavy cream creates a rich, smooth base that enhances the chocolate’s flavor without overpowering the drink.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute whole milk and cream with oat or almond milk, and use dairy-free chocolate for a similar indulgent experience.
- → How do I keep the hot cocoa warm for serving?
Prepare the cocoa on medium heat without boiling, then transfer it to a heatproof pitcher to maintain warmth during the gathering.
- → What toppings complement the chocolate best?
Toppings like mini marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel sauce, peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings provide sweet and textured contrast to the creamy cocoa.
- → How can I customize the dippable treats?
You can swap bear-shaped cookies for festive biscuits or include seasonal fruits like strawberries to vary flavors and textures.