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Cozy Hot Cocoa Bar: Easy Homemade Recipe for 6 Drinks

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A comforting homemade hot cocoa bar recipe that serves six, featuring a rich chocolate base and a variety of customizable toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and spices.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 6 cups Whole Milk (or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (optional, for richness)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1 pinch Sea Salt
  • Mini Marshmallows (for topping)
  • Toasted Marshmallows (optional, for topping)
  • Whipped Cream (for topping)
  • Chocolate Shavings (dark, milk, or white)
  • Caramel Sauce (for drizzling)
  • Crushed Peppermint Candy
  • Chili Powder or Cayenne Pepper (optional)
  • Cookie Crumbles (Oreos or gingerbread)

Instructions

  1. Set up the toppings bar by filling small bowls with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint, cookie crumbles, and caramel sauce.
  2. If using toasted marshmallows, broil them for 1-2 minutes until golden, then set aside to cool.
  3. Pour milk into a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and sugar to create a smooth paste.
  5. Slowly whisk the cocoa mixture into the hot milk until fully dissolved and smooth.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
  7. Taste and adjust sweetness or salt if needed. Stir in heavy cream if desired.
  8. Ladle hot cocoa into wide-mouth mugs (about 1.5 to 2 cups per person).
  9. Top immediately with marshmallows and allow guests to add their preferred toppings.

Notes

Do not let the milk boil to avoid scalding. Mix cocoa with sugar first to prevent lumps. Keep the cocoa warm on low heat or in a slow cooker for serving. Leftover base can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cocoa, hot chocolate, winter drinks, cozy recipes, cocoa bar, homemade hot cocoa, marshmallows, holiday drinks

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/cozy-hot-cocoa-bar-easy-homemade-recipe-for-6-drinks/