This year is close to a wrap and nothing gives more comfort than hot beverages, especially when infused with chocolate. So, why not try our recommendations and taste divinity from a cup?
As temperatures dip further in the coming months, these cozy cocoa creations will become your new go-to comfort drinks for those chilly nights. Start your day or relax after work with a soul-warming beverage.
The festive season is also in full swing and won’t end until the year is truly over. So, we're sharing some cozy cocoa-based drinks that are perfect for such cooler evenings. Whether you need an energy boost or just want to satisfy a sweet craving, we have options for all moods.
From stove-top recipes to blended drinks, these cocoa concoctions will transport you straight to chocolate heaven. Best of all, these drinks are simple to make using ingredients commonly found in your kitchen.
1. Hot Chocolate
Gear up for winter with this drink! October is nearing its end and a slight nip in the air makes it the perfect time to indulge in this cocoa-rich drink.
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 500ml milk (you can use water for a lighter version)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2-4 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts steaming.
- Add the cocoa powder and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add sugar and cinnamon (if using) and whisk to dissolve.
- Pour into mugs and enjoy! Top with marshmallows or whipped cream if desired.
2. Mocha
Coffee and cocoa come together in this energy-boosting dreamy drink that is great if you are low on energy and craving caffeine.
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- Hot Chocolate recipe (above)
- 2 shots of espresso or strong coffee
Instructions:
- Make the hot chocolate as above.
- Add the hot espresso/coffee to the hot chocolate and whisk to combine.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or foam if desired.
3. Hot cocoa bombs
What's better than hot chocolate? Chocolate bombs dropped in a glass of milk! Nothing can top this delight as the chocolate bomb dissolves in hot milk to unravel its flavors in the milk.
Makes: 4 bombs
Ingredients:
- 250g melted chocolate (dark or milk)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup crushed Cadbury Gems
Instructions:
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- Pour melted chocolate into liners, about 2 tbsp each.
- Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to each and gently shake to coat inside.
- Add marshmallows and gems.
- Pour the remaining chocolate to seal. Refrigerate until set.
- When serving, place the bomb in a mug and pour hot milk over it.
4. Chocolate Shake
If some evenings are too warm to cozy up with a hot drink, then the classic chocolate shake should be your go-to option with a generous service of ice cubes.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp chocolate syrup or cocoa powder
- 4-5 ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend on high speed until thick and frothy.
- Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
5. Frappuccino
Coffee shop frappuccinos, move over! For now you can make your own frappuccino at home with this delightful recipe that is rich in cocoa and coffee!
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup strong coffee, chilled
- 2 tbsp chocolate syrup or cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 4-5 ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend on high speed until thick and frothy, for about 30 seconds.
- Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream if desired.
6. Dark Chocolate Steamer
This is a bit of an unusual drink, but we promise it's as delicious, if not more, than hot chocolate. The best part about this is the healthier dark chocolate, it’s not a lot but it might make you feel a little less guilty to indulge in this. If frappuccino and hot chocolate were combined, this is what would be the likely outcome.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp sugar or honey
- Whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings for topping
Instructions:
- Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming.
- Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar/honey until fully incorporated.
- Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings.
7. Hot Butterbeer
Just the name can get a Harry Potter fan excited, and the best part is that this is non-alcoholic; it’s an absolute soul-warming drink that we promise you will love.
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp butterscotch or caramel syrup
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to steam and rise up the sides of the pan.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the sugar and cocoa powder.
- Whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until the sugar and cocoa have dissolved completely.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butterscotch or caramel syrup.
- Pour into two mugs and top each with whipped cream.