Hot Cocoa Recipe Inspired By The Santa Clauses (2024)

By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on December 15, 2023 | Last Updated on December 15, 2023

The holiday season is here and that means it’s time to cozy up with a warm mug of hot cocoa! Whether you’re looking for a traditional recipe, or one that’s inspired by the Santa Clauses of the world, we’ve got you covered.

Today, we’re going to be exploring a Hot Cocoa Recipe Inspired by the Santa Clauses. Read on to learn what makes this recipe so special, the ingredients you’ll need, and how to make it!

What is Hot Cocoa Recipe Inspired by the Santa Clauses?

Hot cocoa recipe inspired by the Santa Clauses is a delicious and festive twist on the classic hot cocoa recipe. This recipe combines the classic flavors of hot cocoa with the sweetness of candy canes, the warmth of cinnamon, and the richness of white chocolate.

The result is a wintery treat that is sure to please even the pickiest of taste buds!

What Does it Taste Like?

This hot cocoa recipe is sweet and creamy, with a hint of mint and a hint of warmth from the cinnamon.

The white chocolate and the candy canes add a festive sweetness, and the overall flavor is simply delightful.

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Ingredients

1. Velvety Whole Milk: Whole milk serves as the luscious canvas for this indulgent hot cocoa, imparting a rich and full-bodied texture. Its high fat content contributes to the velvety mouthfeel, ensuring a luxurious and comforting experience reminiscent of the holiday season.

2. Rich, Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate adds depth and complexity to the hot cocoa. It brings a sophisticated touch, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the milk and other chocolates, and pays homage to the refined taste expected in a beverage inspired by the Santa Clauses.

3. Silky Milk Chocolate: Milk chocolate introduces a creamy sweetness that complements the richness of whole milk, forming a harmonious balance. Its velvety texture and mellow sweetness appeal to a broader audience, capturing the nostalgic essence of holiday treats enjoyed by Santa Clauses of various ages.

4. Golden Cane Sugar: Golden cane sugar enhances the overall sweetness of the hot cocoa. It adds a nuanced flavor that complements the chocolates and contributes to the comforting sweetness associated with festive indulgences, making this recipe a true delight for the jolly figures that inspire it.

5. Himalayan Pink Salt: The salt acts as a flavor enhancer, highlighting the richness of the chocolates and balancing the sweetness. Its distinct mineral notes provide a hint of sophistication, creating a hot cocoa that goes beyond mere sweetness, offering a layered and memorable experience reminiscent of the discerning palate one might associate with the legendary Santa Clauses.

Directions

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

Begin by assembling the following high-quality ingredients:

• 4 cups of farm-fresh, velvety whole milk
• 6 ounces of decadent, artisanal dark chocolate
• 6 ounces of smooth, silky milk chocolate
• 2 tablespoons of golden cane sugar
• A pinch of Himalayan pink salt

Step 2: Chop the Chocolate

Take both the dark chocolate and milk chocolate and carefully chop them into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even melting when added to the hot milk later on.

Step 3: Heat the Milk

In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the 4 cups of velvety whole milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the formation of a skin on the surface.

Step 4: Add Dark Chocolate

Once the milk is warmed (but not boiling), incorporate the chopped dark chocolate into the saucepan. Stir continuously until the dark chocolate is fully melted, creating a smooth and velvety mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate Milk Chocolate

Next, add the chopped milk chocolate to the saucepan. Continue stirring until the milk chocolate is completely melted and seamlessly incorporated into the milk mixture, achieving a rich and creamy consistency.

Step 6: Sweeten with Golden Cane Sugar

Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of golden cane sugar into the hot chocolate mixture. Stir well until the sugar dissolves, providing a touch of natural sweetness to enhance the overall flavor.

Step 7: Season with Himalayan Pink Salt

Introduce complexity and depth to the hot cocoa by adding a pinch of Himalayan pink salt. Stir gently to ensure the salt is evenly distributed, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 8: Simmer and Serve

Allow the hot cocoa to simmer for a few additional minutes, ensuring all ingredients meld together without reaching a boiling point.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Ladle the hot cocoa into mugs once it reaches your desired temperature and consistency. Consider garnishing with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a festive touch.

Step 10: Enjoy

Sip and savor the rich, creamy, and indulgent flavors of this Santa Claus-inspired hot cocoa. Share the warmth and delight with your loved ones for a truly festive and enjoyable holiday treat.

Tips

• If you don’t have white chocolate chips, you can substitute regular chocolate chips.
• You can also add a splash of cream or non-dairy milk to make the hot cocoa even creamier.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of peppermint extract for an extra festive twist.
• If you’d like to make this recipe a bit healthier, you can swap the white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips and the sugar for a natural sweetener.
• To make a vegan version of this recipe, you can substitute the milk for your favorite non-dairy alternative and the white chocolate chips for vegan white chocolate chips.

Nutrition Information

Serving size: 1 cup

What to Serve with Hot Cocoa Recipe Inspired by the Santa Clauses?

• Marshmallows: Toasted marshmallows make a delicious addition to hot cocoa.
• Cookies: Enjoy your hot cocoa with a few cookies for a festive treat.
• Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Chocolate-covered pretzels are a great sweet and salty snack that pairs perfectly with hot cocoa.
• Whipped Cream: Top your hot cocoa with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy treat.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your hot cocoa for an extra sweet treat.

How to Store Leftover Hot Cocoa Recipe Inspired by the Santa Clauses?

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the hot cocoa in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until it is heated through.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Hot Cocoa Recipe Inspired by the Santa Clauses?

• Coconut Milk: Coconut milk can be used in place of regular milk for a vegan-friendly version of this recipe.
• Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips in place of white chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Ground Nutmeg: Use ground nutmeg instead of ground cinnamon for a slightly different flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: Use dried cranberries instead of candy canes for an unusual twist.

Frequently Asked Question

Conclusion

Hot cocoa recipe inspired by the Santa Clauses is a perfect way to enjoy a cozy cup of hot cocoa while celebrating the holiday season!

This recipe combines the classic flavors of hot cocoa with the sweetness of candy canes, the warmth of cinnamon, and the richness of white chocolate for a wintery treat that is sure to please even the pickiest of taste buds.

With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a mug of hot cocoa that is sure to warm your heart and soul. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this festive and delicious hot cocoa recipe!

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