Hot Cocoa Many Ways and Many Tastes
Cozy up with a steaming mug of "Hot Cocoa Many Ways and Many Tastes," a customizable recipe that transforms this classic comfort drink into a playground for your taste buds. This versatile hot cocoa begins with a rich base of velvety whole milk or a dairy-free alternative, perfectly blended with unsweetened cocoa powder and a touch of vanilla. From there, the possibilities are endless—add dark chocolate chips for indulgent richness, a sprinkle of cinnamon and cayenne for a warming spiced twist, or a hint of peppermint for a refreshing wintry vibe. Personalize it further with your choice of toppings, from fluffy whipped cream to decadent coconut cream for a vegan option, or nostalgic mini marshmallows. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy recipe delivers endless flavor options for every mood, whether you crave a classic, spiced, or minty take on hot cocoa. Indulge in the ultimate cozy drink, just the way you like it!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
- 0.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons Dark chocolate chips (optional for richer cocoa)
- 0.25 teaspoons Cinnamon (optional, for spiced cocoa)
- 1 pinch Cayenne pepper (optional, for spicy cocoa)
- 0.25 teaspoons Peppermint extract (optional, for minty cocoa)
- 2 tablespoons Coconut cream (optional, for vegan topping)
- 2 tablespoons Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- 0.5 cups Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
Instructions
In a small saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and a splash of milk over medium heat. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth paste with no lumps.
Slowly pour in the remaining milk, whisking constantly to combine the cocoa mixture and milk completely.
Increase the heat slightly and continue whisking until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.
Add the vanilla extract and, if using, the dark chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate chips are melted and the cocoa is smooth and creamy.
If making a spiced version, stir in the cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper at this stage. For minty cocoa, add the peppermint extract instead of spices.
Divide the hot cocoa between two mugs. Adjust sweetness to taste by adding a small amount of additional sugar or sweetener if desired.
Top with your choice of whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or coconut cream for a vegan option. Feel free to get creative with combinations of toppings!
Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy comfort of warm, homemade hot cocoa.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
822 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.1 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.9 g | 124% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 58 mg | 19% | |
| Sodium | 237 mg | 10% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 111.9 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 87.7 g | ||
| Protein | 21.5 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.2 mcg | 31% | |
| Calcium | 595 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 933 mg | 20% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
