Hot Cocoa Extravaganza π«β
Description:
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of hot cocoa, a timeless favorite that knows no season but is especially cherished during the frosty holiday months. This recipe, a cherished gem from Hershey’s, promises to delight your senses with its rich flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sugar π¬
- 1/4 teaspoon salt π§
- 1 cup hot water π§
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder π«
- 4 cups milk π₯
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract πΏ
- Miniature marshmallows (as desired) π₯
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor Adventures:
- Ground cinnamon (1/8 teaspoon)
- Ground nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon)
- Mint extract (1/2 teaspoon)
- Crushed hard peppermint candy (3 tablespoons)
- White creme de menthe (2 to 3 tablespoons)
- Orange extract (1/2 teaspoon)
- Orange liqueur (2 to 3 tablespoons)
- Powdered instant coffee (2 to 2 1/2 teaspoons)
- Maple extract (1/2 teaspoon)
- Sugar substitute (equivalent to 1/2 cup sugar)
- Skim milk (substitute for milk)
- Softened vanilla ice cream (2 tablespoons per cup)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- Peppermint candy stick (for garnish)
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa, and salt. Stir in hot water until well mixed. | Prep: 5m |
| 2 | Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it comes to a gentle boil. | Cook: 5m |
| 3 | Allow it to boil for 2 minutes, ensuring you stir continuously. | |
| 4 | Add milk gradually, heating the mixture until it reaches the desired serving temperature. | |
| 5 | Caution: Avoid boiling the milk. | |
| 6 | Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. | |
| 7 | Use a rotary beater or whisk to beat the mixture until it becomes foamy. | |
| 8 | Serve the hot cocoa in mugs, topped with miniature marshmallows or sweetened whipped cream if desired. | |
| 9 | For Spiced Cocoa: Add cinnamon and nutmeg with the vanilla extract. | |
| 10 | For Mint Cocoa: Incorporate mint extract or crushed peppermint candy or white creme de menthe with vanilla. | |
| 11 | For Citrus Cocoa: Infuse orange extract or orange liqueur with vanilla. | |
| 12 | For Swiss Mocha: Introduce powdered instant coffee with vanilla. | |
| 13 | For Canadian Cocoa: Add maple extract along with vanilla. | |
| 14 | For Cocoa Au Lait: Skip marshmallows or whipped cream. Spoon softened vanilla ice cream on top of each cup at serving time. | |
| 15 | For Slim-Trim Cocoa: Eliminate sugar and opt for skim milk. | |
| 16 | Blend in sugar substitute with sweetening equivalence of 1/2 cup sugar with vanilla. | |
| 17 | For Quick Microwave Cocoa: In a microwave-safe cup, mix cocoa, sugar, salt, and cold milk until smooth. | |
| 18 | Fill the cup with milk and microwave on HIGH for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until hot. | |
| 19 | Stir well before serving. |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220.1
- Fat: 7.5g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 27.3mg
- Sodium: 127mg
- Carbohydrates: 31.6g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugars: 20.1g
- Protein: 7.2g
Hot cocoa isn’t just a drink; it’s a delightful experience that warms the soul and brings loved ones closer together. With its versatile nature, you can explore a myriad of flavors to suit every mood and occasion. So, gather around, savor the richness, and let the cozy moments unfold with each sip of this decadent treat.
