Spiced Hot Chocolate Bar (Cozy Stovetop Cocoa)
A cozy and indulgent spiced hot chocolate recipe perfect for family movie nights or warming up after the holidays. Prepared on the stovetop, this rich cocoa is infused with cinnamon and vanilla, topped with your choice of marshmallows, whipped cream, or crushed candy cane for a delightful customizable treat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups milk
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 3–4 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Toppings
- Marshmallows
- Whipped cream
- Crushed candy cane
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Pour 4 cups of milk into a pot and heat it on medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling to prevent scorching.
- Mix Cocoa and Spices: Whisk in ¼ cup cocoa powder, 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt into the warm milk until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Melt Chocolate Chips: Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the pot and whisk continuously over low heat until the chocolate melts fully and the mixture is glossy. Keep the heat low to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Add Vanilla and Adjust: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract at the end for enhanced flavor. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
- Serve and Customize: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and set up a toppings bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy cane for everyone to personalize their drink.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, or substitute with any milk alternative if preferred.
- Do not let the milk boil to avoid a burnt flavor and maintain smoothness.
- Adjust the cinnamon quantity to your taste, or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Keep stirring continuously when adding chocolate chips to prevent burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.