Packets of hot chocolate mix are easy and convenient, especially on the go. But if you want really decadent hot chocolate, you make if from scratch! Don’t let this intimidate you! They’re actually really easy to make and well worth the extra few minutes and ingredients! So when it’s time to warm up outdoors, try these best hot chocolate recipes! Your taste buds will thank you!
Mint Hot Chocolate
If you like mint chocolate chip ice cream, you’ll love this warm treat? Try this refreshing hot chocolate rendition to get you warmed up and ready for adventure!
Ingredients:
1½ C. heavy cream
1½ C. milk
¼ C. white sugar
⅛ tsp. salt
6 oz. European dark chocolate, chopped
3 drops of peppermint oil
Whipped cream
Directions:
Step 1: In a sauce pan, either on the range or over the campfire, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat on low until it begins to steam.
Step 2: Add the chocolate and stir until melted and smooth. Then stir in the peppermint oil.
Step 3: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream, and enjoy!
For an adult version of this, you can replace the peppermint oil with peppermint schnapps.
Caramel Hot Chocolate
Ooooh, chocolate and caramel! What a winning combination! Try it warm in a mug for a tasty winter treat!
Ingredients:
1½ C. whole milk
¾ C. heavy cream
15 oz. milk chocolate (premium milk chocolate is well worth the money)
½ C. caramel sauce
Directions:
Step 1: In a sauce pan over the campfire or stove, combine the milk and cream and heat until simmering.
Step 2: Stir in the chocolate and whisk until it’s melted and smooth.
Step 3: Whisk in the caramel sauce until blended.
Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy!
This is another one that can have an adult spin. Just add caramel schnapps instead of (or in addition to) the caramel sauce.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate
Jump on the pumpkin spice bandwagon with this warm fall treat! You can even add some espresso to turn it into a latte if you desire!
Ingredients:
3 C. milk
1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
4 tsp. honey
2 tsp. dark cocoa powder
Directions:
Step 1: In a sauce pan, heat the milk until it begins to steam.
Step 2: Add the pumpkin spice, honey, and cocoa and stir until well blended.
Step 3: Pour the hot chocolate into cups and enjoy!
Maybe add some pumpkin spice Kahlúa? We think so!!!!!
Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate
Imagine melting a peanut butter cup in a warm glass of milk and you have this silky smooth treat! Try this homemade peanut butter hot chocolate the next time you feel a chill coming on!
Ingredients:
3 C. milk
3 Tbsp. peanut butter
1 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ C. sugar
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
Directions:
Step 1: In a sauce pan, heat the milk, cocoa powder, vanilla, and sugar over the fire or stove. Bring it to a simmer.
Step 2: Add the peanut butter and stir until well blended.
Step 3: Divide up the deliciousness into cups and watch the smiles form!
Peanut butter rum anyone?
The possibilities for home-made hot chocolate are endless. Experiment with what you like to make the best mixture! Let us know which one is your favorite!
