Day 14 of #BLOGMAS :: The Perfect Cup of Hot Chocolate
Today we're going to be talking about hot chocolate! In my opinion, the best cup of hot chocolate is one that is super creamy, smooth and made by yours truly. If I'm going to be completely honest, I only have hot chocolate once or twice a year and I stray away from buying it. I feel like the ones that you get at Christmas markets are watered down. I'd rather buy an iced coffee in super chilly weather than have a cup of hot watery goop -- yes, I know, I'm picky.
- cocoa powder
- milk
- sugar -- depending on what kind of cocoa you're using
The secret to the perfect cup of hot chocolate is ditching the recipes that tell you to heat up water as the first step. I never ever ever use water, I always opt for milk instead.
To make a cup, heat up 2/3 of a cup a milk -- either on the stove or in the microwave. You want that 2/3 of a cup to be hot because the hotter your base, the faster and better your cocoa will dissolve. If placing in the microwave, I heat it up for about 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
Next pour in your cocoa and mix. I really love the Swiss Miss packets because each packet equates to one cup. But you can also use Hershey's cocoa powder, or Starbuck's cocoa powder -- whichever you love best works!
If you're using powders that come in a can and is unsweetened, then mix 3 tablespoons of cocoa to one cup of milk and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar to that mix. Remember, the sugar is only if your powder is unsweetened!
Mix until you can't see the powder anymore at the surface. If your cocoa isn't hot enough you'll see powder clumps at the top. If that's the case, heat it up some more and mix again until no more clumps are floating up to the top.
Once that's done, add more milk to cool it down a bit and then wa-la! All done. There is your simple, delicious, cup of hot chocolate.
TIP :: if you're making a batch for your family or a larger gathering, heat and mix everything while on the stove. It's much easier and faster. That way you can serve everyone at the same time!
If you love a bit of flavor and some extra festive flare, add some toppings to your cup of cocoa! Here are some fun and festive topping ideas:
- whipped cream
- chocolate syrup
- mini marshmallows
- chocolate shavings
- cinnamon
- candy cane shreds
- sprinkles
- coffee ice cream -- any type of ice cream will do, coffee ice cream is just my favorite!
- powdered sugar
- chocolate chips -- mint, white, or milk
- coconut shavings
- caramel sauce
The topping possibilities are endless as long as you're creative!
Well, there you have it my dears -- my simple take on the art of hot chocolate. How do you make yours? I'd love to hear your tips and tricks!
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