Hot Cocoa
There are so many things to enjoy these winter months, spending time with family, celebrating the holidays, or maybe even building a snowman or two! But, winter also means that it is cold, and I believe nothing is better than a steaming cup of hot chocolate after a long day out in the snow. Here are a few different types my favorite winter drink for you to try and enjoy this season.
Original Hot Chocolate
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt
6-1/2 cups hot water
Marshmallows (optional)
Combine all of the ingredients, except the water and marshmallows, into a large saucepan and mix well. Put the pan over medium heat and slowly stir the water into the mix. After you have added the water let your hot chocolate heat for awhile, stirring it occasionally. Do not let it boil. After it is heated pour into mugs and top with marshmallows.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
4 cups milk
1 ounce semisweet chocolate, chopped
4 peppermint candy canes, crushed
1 cup whipped cream
4 peppermint candy canes
Heat the milk in a saucepan until it is hot, but not boiling. Then whisk in the chocolate and the crushed candy canes until everything is melted. Pour the hot cocoa into 4 cups and add whipped cream and a candy cane stirring stick to each of them.
Spiced Hot Chocolate
6 cups milk
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Warm the milk in the saucepan over medium low heat. Once the milk is warm, stir in the cocoa and the sugar until they have dissolved. Add the rest of the ingredients and cook to your desired heat, then enjoy!
Try these recipes with visiting family members or serve them to your kids after a day in the snow, either way you’ll be sure to be warm and cozy this winter!