.jpeg_600.jpg)
Another holiday season is here. It has definitely been one wild year with lots of ups and downs. This season is my favorite time of the year. Growing up, one of our favorite family activities was driving around town and looking at all of the beautiful Christmas lights. As I’ve grown up and started my own family, my husband and I have continued the tradition with our growing family. There’s something magical about watching it all for the first time through the eyes of a child. Another favorite activity is snuggling on the couch to watch a good old-fashioned Hallmark Christmas movie.
Hot cocoa is a must for any winter activity! I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite holiday recipes, my homemade stovetop hot cocoa. I created this recipe a few years ago, it was the first snow of the season and we were all craving hot cocoa but I had no hot chocolate mix at home. After some research I combined a few recipes to make this extra creamy and rich. The heavy cream and chocolate chips make this hot cocoa thick. While the vanilla and salt add a smooth finish. It was an instant hit at our house and now we make it all December long for every activity.
Ingredients
¾ c. sugar
1/3 c. Hershey’s cocoa powder
1 c. heavy cream
3 c. milk, preferably whole
1 tsp. vanilla
¾ c. white chocolate chips
In a medium sized heavy bottomed pan over low medium heat, combine all ingredients. Whisk until combined. Whisk until all the chips are melted and the mixture comes to a simmer. Do not boil. Pour into mugs and serve with all your favorite toppings. We love candy canes, whipped cream and marshmallows in ours.
Tips:
It can be made ahead and kept in a crockpot on low for serving.
I prefer to use Hershey's Special Dark hot cocoa, but my kids and husband prefer the regular. It all depends on your flavor preference.
You can thin it out by adding more milk or water.
Stir in a 1/3 c. of peanut butter for the ultimate chocolate peanut butter combo.
Click here to read more of our December issue.