Alright, friends, let’s gather around, mugs in hand, because it’s Christmas Eve and there’s no better time to dive into one of the most important debates of the season: hot cocoa. Specifically, how you’re making it. And yes, I’m about to ruffle some feathers, but it’s out of love, I promise.
If you’re still tearing open a Swiss Miss packet and stirring it into hot water… why are you doing this to yourself?! Listen, I grew up on those little packets too. They were convenient, they were sweet, and as a kid, I thought they were magical. But let me tell you something: they’re not. They’re fine in a pinch, but they’re not real hot cocoa.
Let’s talk about the real deal. Homemade hot cocoa is a game-changer. It’s creamy, indulgent, and a thousand times more satisfying than any powder mix could dream of being. My current favorite recipe? Whole milk (raw if you can swing it!), a smidgen of cocoa powder, a splash of vanilla extract, and a mix of white and milk chocolate chips. Heat it all gently until the chocolate melts into velvety perfection. Tonight, I’m thinking about adding a dash of peppermint—because why not?
And let me die on this hill for a moment: Whole milk is non-negotiable. You can’t get that creamy, rich thickness with water. You just can’t. I don’t care if you’re using Swiss Miss or stirring up a homemade concoction—milk makes the magic happen.
Now, let’s get a little spicy, shall we? Pre-made mixes are full of additives, questionable ingredients, and a metric ton of sugar. Sure, I’m not here claiming my chocolate chips are pure health food, but at least I know what I’m putting in my mug. When you make hot cocoa from scratch, you control the sweetness, the flavor, and the quality of the ingredients. It’s a small act of rebellion against the convenience culture we’ve all been swept into.
So, what’s your go-to hot cocoa recipe? Are you a marshmallow purist? A whipped cream connoisseur? Do you sprinkle cinnamon on top or maybe add a pinch of cayenne for a little kick? Or, heaven forbid, are you still reaching for those little blue packets and boiling water?
Whatever your preference, let’s take a moment to savor the small things tonight—the warmth of a mug in your hands, the sweetness of chocolate on your tongue, and the joy of gathering together to celebrate. And if you’ve got a recipe you swear by, send it my way—I’m always looking to perfect mine.
Until next time (and with a cocoa-stained smile),
Traci
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