Hot Cocoa Many Ways and Many Tastes

Cozy up with a steaming mug of "Hot Cocoa Many Ways and Many Tastes," a customizable recipe that transforms this classic comfort drink into a playground for your taste buds. This versatile hot cocoa begins with a rich base of velvety whole milk or a dairy-free alternative, perfectly blended with unsweetened cocoa powder and a touch of vanilla. From there, the possibilities are endless—add dark chocolate chips for indulgent richness, a sprinkle of cinnamon and cayenne for a warming spiced twist, or a hint of peppermint for a refreshing wintry vibe. Personalize it further with your choice of toppings, from fluffy whipped cream to decadent coconut cream for a vegan option, or nostalgic mini marshmallows. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy recipe delivers endless flavor options for every mood, whether you crave a classic, spiced, or minty take on hot cocoa. Indulge in the ultimate cozy drink, just the way you like it!

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:10 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 cups Whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
• 0.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons Dark chocolate chips (optional for richer cocoa)
• 0.25 teaspoons Cinnamon (optional, for spiced cocoa)
• 1 pinch Cayenne pepper (optional, for spicy cocoa)
• 0.25 teaspoons Peppermint extract (optional, for minty cocoa)
• 2 tablespoons Coconut cream (optional, for vegan topping)
• 2 tablespoons Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• 0.5 cups Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)

Directions

Step 1

In a small saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and a splash of milk over medium heat. Stir until the mixture forms a smooth paste with no lumps.

Step 2

Slowly pour in the remaining milk, whisking constantly to combine the cocoa mixture and milk completely.

Step 3

Increase the heat slightly and continue whisking until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.

Step 4

Add the vanilla extract and, if using, the dark chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate chips are melted and the cocoa is smooth and creamy.

Step 5

If making a spiced version, stir in the cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper at this stage. For minty cocoa, add the peppermint extract instead of spices.

Step 6

Divide the hot cocoa between two mugs. Adjust sweetness to taste by adding a small amount of additional sugar or sweetener if desired.

Step 7

Top with your choice of whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or coconut cream for a vegan option. Feel free to get creative with combinations of toppings!

Step 8

Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy comfort of warm, homemade hot cocoa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(644.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	822.1

Total Fat 36.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 24.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 58.0mg	0%
Sodium 236.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 111.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 5.4g	0%
Total Sugars 87.7g
Protein 21.5g	0%

Vitamin D 248.0IU	0%
Calcium 594.6mg	0%
Iron 3.3mg	0%
Potassium 932.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.8%

Protein: 10.0%

Carbs: 52.1%