Indulge With Hot Chocolate Inspired Holiday Treats



During the holidays there is nothing quite like cozying up by a fire with a huge cup of hot chocolate topped with whip cream and a candy cane. It is one of those little indulgences that make cold weather worth while. For me, no holiday season is complete without it. For those who feel the same, here are a few creative ways to incorporate it this season.



 

Make your next winter party interesting by offering a hot chocolate bar. Here you can serve hot chocolate and coffee with a variety of toppings. Display whipped cream, cinnamon, chocolate chips, chocolate dipped spoons, and a variety of syrups for your guests to choose from. My personal favorite is a splash of rich coffee and hazelnut syrup in my hot chocolate! This idea is perfect for those who like the idea of a candy bar or ice cream buffet, but want to put a new twist on the trend. 

Loosen up your guests from holiday stress with hot chocolate inspired drinks like a hot chocolate martini served with an olive-esque chocolate drop skewered on a peppermint stick. You can also spike your traditional hot chocolate to give it some kick. Bailey's Irish Cream, Kahlua, and Crème de Menthe, are a few liquors that will mix well.

Of course you can have hot chocolate available for guests of in-home parties, but this won't work if you are heading out to a pot luck or taking a treat into your child's school Christmas party. Heaven in liquid form can get a little messy during travel. That's where the deliciously beautiful hot chocolate cupcakes by Chocswirl come in. What could be better than a warm, moist cupcake topped with chocolate ganache, melted marshmallows and cinnamon! Get creative with your toppings to make them more festive for the holidays. Stick in a mini candy cane or you could even bake them in small ceramic holiday mugs or espresso cups! Check out Chocswirl's blog for the recipe for these yummy treats. Lick The Spatula also offers a sophisticated version involving coffee and Kahlua buttercream icing (yum!). 
 Another fun way to incorporate hot chocolate into your holiday is by giving hot chocolate mix layered in clear jars or bags. These make a great craft for kids who want to participate in the gift giving. To keep the mess minimal use a baking funnel or fashion one out of paper. Make your hot chocolate recipe even more indulgent by adding a layer of chocolate chips, instant coffee, crushed candy canes, and mini marshmallows. The mix is best when  presented with tasty extras like chocolate covered spoons for stirring or a personalized mug. Make sure to add a cute tag with cooking instructions.

~ Jenna

Photo Credits: Mug in Snow courtesy of The Little Goat, Cocoa Cupcakes courtesy of Chocswirl, Cocoa Mix courtesy of MyRecipes.com