A delightful and festive treat to warm your holidays! These Christmas Chocolate Hot Cups are rich, creamy, and perfect for sipping while enjoying the season’s festivities. Packed with the decadent flavors of chocolate and a hint of holiday spices, they’re a surefire hit for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavors: A combination of rich chocolate with seasonal spices makes it a perfect winter treat.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip this up quickly.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to suit everyone’s taste.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Crushed candy canes or marshmallows (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Heat the milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until warm, but do not let it boil.
- Add the chocolate chips and sugar, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Adjust sweetness as desired.
- Pour the hot chocolate into cups and top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or marshmallows if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the festive warmth!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 cups
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of holiday flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Mocha Twist: Stir in a shot of espresso for a caffeinated boost.
- Adult Version: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps or Irish cream for a grown-up holiday treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Avoid boiling to maintain its creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it may result in a sweeter drink. Adjust the sugar accordingly.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it in advance and reheat before serving. Add toppings fresh just before serving.
3. What non-dairy milk works best for this recipe?
Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are excellent substitutes for a creamy texture.
4. Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?
Yes, substitute with 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder and adjust the sugar for sweetness.
5. How can I make it thicker?
Add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream or reduce the milk slightly for a thicker consistency.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all ingredients, like chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free.
7. What toppings work best?
Whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or chocolate shavings are popular choices.
8. Can I skip the cinnamon?
Yes, you can omit the cinnamon if you prefer a classic hot chocolate flavor.
9. How do I make it sugar-free?
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Ensure the chocolate chips are also sugar-free.
10. Can I serve this cold?
Yes, let the hot chocolate cool and serve it over ice for a chilled version.
Conclusion
These Christmas Chocolate Hot Cups are the perfect indulgence to bring a touch of warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them by the fire, they’re bound to become a seasonal favorite. Try the recipe today and make your holiday season even sweeter!
PrintChristmas Chocolate Hot Cups
These Christmas Chocolate Hot Cups are the perfect holiday treat! Creamy, rich, and indulgent hot chocolate served in edible chocolate cups and topped with festive garnishes. A cozy, delicious way to celebrate the season!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cups:
- 1 ½ cups (300g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Silicone or foil cupcake liners
For the Hot Chocolate:
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp (30g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Toppings (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Crushed candy canes
- Chocolate shavings
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Make the Chocolate Cups:
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
- Spoon the melted chocolate into silicone or foil cupcake liners, spreading it evenly around the inside to create a thick layer.
- Let the chocolate set in the fridge for about 30 minutes or until completely firm. Gently peel off the liners and set the chocolate cups aside.
- Prepare the Hot Chocolate:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
- Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Hot Cups:
- Carefully pour the hot chocolate into the prepared chocolate cups.
- Top with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or other festive toppings.
- Serve Immediately:
- Enjoy the hot chocolate first, then munch on the chocolate cup for a sweet finish!
Notes
- If you don’t have silicone liners, use foil cupcake liners for easy peeling.
- Adjust sugar in the hot chocolate according to your sweetness preference.
- Keep the chocolate cups in the fridge until ready to serve to avoid melting.