By Aparna Dutta
December 20th, 2023
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This is the most amazing time of the year, and there's no better way to embrace the festive season than by grabbing a cup of hot chocolate and a red and green jumper. Here are some innovative ideas to try to give a twist to the go-to hot chocolate
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A small amount of salt won't make the hot chocolate salty. Rather, it will accentuate the sweetness while reducing the bitterness. Salt tastes great in hot beverages and is frequently used in chocolate cakes and cookies.
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Adding hot pepper to hot chocolate gives a nice balance to the bitterness of the cacao. Start with a pinch and keep tasting to see if more is necessary.
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Add a zest of fresh orange into the chocolate drink to give it a fruity, refreshing punch. Chocolate and oranges go well together, which is a great addition for people who think hot chocolate is "too sugary."
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Try making the hot chocolate with chai tea as the base rather than using milk or oat milk. It makes a fantastic option for vegan cocoa when mixed with vegan chocolate, and there are also a few excellent vegan milk chocolates available. Remember to include the whipped cream!
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Chocolate and mint go very well together. Add peppermint to hot chocolate by crushing peppermint candies, extract, or fresh mint leaves.
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Candy canes are likely the most festive addition to hot chocolate, and they work well as a garnish and as stirrers. Crushed candy canes work best when sprinkled over the top or used to decorate the rim of a cup of cacao.
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To enhance the flavour of the drink, adding a small amount of whisky to hot chocolate elevates the overall experience and adds a touch of Irish flair.
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