Hot Chocolates to Sip Around the Fireplace
The blustering and frosty weather makes us crave to be inside by the fireplace with some hot cozy drinks. But, the holidays have us hankering for some festive drinks that reflect the Yuletide season. Cinnamon, spices, peppermint, orange, eggnog and chocolate are some flavors we associate with Christmas and they can all be included in a holiday beverage. Here are a few decadent hot chocolate recipes that will comfort you on a cold day.
Eggnog Hot Chocolate
Eggnog Hot Chocolate is fairly simple and really amps up the holiday flavors. With a few ingredients, you can turn an otherwise plain drink into a jovial brew for the whole family.
Instructions: Whisk 3 cups of eggnog with 2 Tbsp of cocoa powder and 1/2 cup of chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the chocolate is melted and velvety smooth – about 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 tsp of cinnamon and served with your favorite topping. Some topping ideas could be marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon, shaved, or drizzled chocolate.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate is another holiday favorite, especially with the kids. Combine 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 4 cups of milk, 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup crushed candy canes, and a pinch of salt. In a medium saucepan add cocoa and slowly whisk in milk until the cocoa has completely dissolved. Add chocolate chips and crushed peppermint and simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until chocolate and peppermint have melted. Approx 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat, add a pinch of salt and serve with a peppermint stick.
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate will definitely get you into the holiday spirit. Combine:
♥ 4 cups milk
♥ ½ cup cocoa powder
♥ ¼ cup brown sugar
♥ ¼ cup white sugar
♥ ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
♥ ½ teaspoon allspice
♥ ½ teaspoon ground ginger
♥ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
♥ ¼ teaspoon sea salt
♥ whipped cream for topping
Instructions: In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm milk. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and gradually stir into hot milk. Serve with your favorite topping.