The 7 Best Hot Chocolate Toppings Apart From Marshmallows
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Hot chocolate is a popular beverage that is loved by people of all ages, from kids to adults. It is a decadent, thick, and indulgent drink that is greatly enjoyed during the winter months, especially for Christmas. When it comes to hot chocolate, the toppings play a big part and marshmallows are the go-to topping as well as iconic. But if you want to change things up and try something different that is as good as marshmallows, then these toppings will be the perfect addition to your hot chocolate.

Chopped Peanuts

Yes, you can use peanuts as your hot chocolate topping. They are crunchy and add an earthly and nutty flavour to the hot chocolate, making a great contrast between the flavours. They complement each other well and add a great crunch to the beverage. Those who love peanuts will definitely enjoy this.

Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are popular winter treats that are enjoyed extensively during the Christmas and festive seasons. But if you intend to use gingerbread cookies as a topping for hot chocolate, then instead of dumping a whole cookie on top, simply crush and sprinkle them on the drink.

The hot chocolate will instantly elevate thanks to the chewy texture of the cookies along with their sweet and spicy flavour. It’s a dream pairing that combines two of the most popular winter treats.

Berries

Berries are something that you should always keep in stock. Why? They are highly versatile and can be used in many ways, such as in oatmeal, pudding, pancakes, bread, and more. Hot chocolate comes under the same category and berries, when used as a topping, enhance the beverage as well.

Use berries like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. The sweet, juicy, and tart flavour profile will complement the drink greatly while also adding a little crunch.

Caramel Sauce

Caramel sauce is a common ingredient, just like the rest of the toppings on this list and you can use it to upgrade your hot chocolate. Both hot chocolate and caramel sauce have a sweet flavour with a smooth texture that goes fantastically well with the beverage. 

Whipped Cream

This luscious thick cream works well on many beverages, such as cold coffee, milkshakes, and more. Hot chocolate is no different and pairs amazingly with whipped cream.

The whipped cream adds richness and a creamy texture to the hot chocolate. That's not all. The sweet taste of the cream also enhances the beverage. Simply add a dollop on top once you’re done preparing your hot chocolate.

Chocolate Sauce

If you are not a big fan of caramel or caramel sauce, then chocolate sauce is your big saviour. Just like caramel sauce, chocolate sauce pairs exceptionally well with hot chocolate thanks to the identical flavours but without the stickiness and thickness of the caramel sauce.

Chocolate sauce also offers a smooth mouthfeel that many people will enjoy.

Dark Cocoa Powder

If you don’t want to go with chocolate sauce, then dark cocoa powder is the way to go. Dark cocoa powder is recommended because it adds a stronger chocolate flavour, but if you are someone who enjoys a lighter chocolate flavour, then simply pick cocoa powder but make sure you pick from a trusted brand without any additives, as different brands offer different flavours. Just sprinkle some powder on top of your beverage and you’re good to go.