Making Amazing Hot Chocolate for a Cozy Winter Night
There’s something comforting about sipping a cup of hot chocolate by the fire on a cold winter’s night. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, warm drink perfect for any occasion over the winter. In this blog post, I’ll cover the basics of making hot chocolate from scratch and some new ideas for making it Christmassy.
Making your own hot chocolate
Let’s start with the basics. Making hot chocolate from scratch is surprisingly easy, resulting in a much richer, creamier drink than anything you’ll find in a packet.
To make the base, combine 2 cups of milk and 1/3 cup of double cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 4 ounces of chopped chocolate (dark or milk, depending on your preference) until the mixture’s fully melted and smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup of sugar and a pinch of salt, then remove from heat and whisk in 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract.
Voila! You’ve got a classic hot chocolate base ready to be dressed up with fun toppings.
Adding Flavours
Now comes the fun part: adding in your favourite seasonal flavours. One popular option is to stir in a spoonful of pumpkin puree and a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a spicy twist on the classic drink. Or, add a splash of peppermint extract and a candy cane for a festive touch.
If you’re feeling indulgent, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce to create a salted caramel hot chocolate. You could also consider using flavoured chocolate, like peppermint or raspberry, to heighten the flavours even more.
Another fun way to spice up your hot chocolate is with mix-ins. One classic favourite is marshmallows, which float on top and get extra melty in the warm liquid. Alternatively top with crushed peppermint or toffee bits for a bit of crunch.
Or, if you’re feeling bold, try adding a shot of espresso for a rich, mocha-inspired drink. Another great option is to create your own marshmallow stir sticks by threading marshmallows onto a skewer and dipping them in melted chocolate and sprinkles.
No matter how you dress up your hot chocolate, it’s sure to be perfect on a chilly winter’s night. Whether you’re cuddled up by the fire with a good book or have friends/family round, this treat is the perfect way to top off any evening. So get creative!
