Whether you make it from a mix or from scratch, hot cocoa is always a special treat to help warm up on a chilly winter day. It’s a delicious pick-me-up the whole family can enjoy! Your go-to may be to enjoy your hot chocolate plain, but why not try something new! Here are a few ways to make your next cup of hot cocoa anything but boring:
Melt in some new flavors
Chocolate and mint are a classic combination. Melt a candy cane or starlight mints into your hot cup to add an essence of mint to your cocoa. Other hard candies can be great additions, too. Try butterscotch or Werther’s Original hard candies to add a creamy sweetness to the chocolate flavor.
Try some yummy mix-ins
If you’re looking for a creamy taste of the season with your cocoa, consider adding a splash of egg nog. Do you have a favorite flavored coffee creamer? Like with coffee, flavors like cinnamon, French vanilla, and even hazelnut can bring something new and different to your cocoa. While you’re raiding the coffee bar, consider foaming up your cup with a frother. If you’re making your cocoa from scratch, try using maple syrup or caramel syrup to sweeten things instead of sugar.
Top it off
Whether sprinkled on top or mixed in, cinnamon is a fun addition to any hot drink. If you’re adventurous, try some cayenne pepper or chili powder to bring a different kind of heat on a cold day. Flavors in powdered form, such as vanilla or even malted milk, are fun to try as well.
Make it fun!
If you’re into the classics, you may already put whipped cream on your cocoa, but what about a dollop of Cool Whip instead? Or even a flavored whipped cream? Instead of marshmallows, try a Boston favorite and stir in a spoonful of Marshmallow Fluff. You can even get fun dehydrated mini marshmallows, just like in the Swiss Miss packets! Or, turn your warm beverage into a creamy and decadent dessert by adding some ice cream.
No matter how you serve it, hot cocoa is a winter staple for kids and adults alike. Enjoy these new takes on an old classic as you warm up this winter season!