Hot chocolate is a classic winter drink that can warm you up on a cold day. But if you want to make your hot chocolate more interesting and flavorful, there are many things you can add to it besides mini marshmallows. Here are some of the best things to put in hot chocolate, according to the web search results.
Extracts
One of the easiest ways to add flavor to your hot chocolate is by adding a splash of your favorite extract. You can choose from a variety of extracts, such as vanilla, almond, coconut, peppermint, or orange. These extracts can enhance the chocolate flavor or create a new combination, such as almond joy, mocha, or chocolate orange.
Spices
Another way to spice up your hot chocolate is by adding some warm spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, or cayenne. These spices can add a touch of heat, sweetness, or complexity to your drink. You can also use spice blends, such as pumpkin pie spice, chai spice, or Mexican hot chocolate spice, to create a more festive and flavorful hot chocolate.
Nutella
If you love hazelnut and chocolate, you can add some Nutella to your hot chocolate for a rich and creamy drink. Nutella is a chocolate-hazelnut spread that can easily melt into your hot milk and create a smooth and luscious hot chocolate. You can top your Nutella hot chocolate with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or more Nutella for a decadent treat.
Caramel, butterscotch, or dulce de leche
For a sweet and sticky hot chocolate, you can add some caramel, butterscotch, or dulce de leche to your drink. These are all types of cooked sugar that have a deep and caramelized flavor. You can melt them into your hot milk and stir well to create a smooth and silky hot chocolate. You can also drizzle some on top of your whipped cream or marshmallows for a more indulgent drink.
Alcohol
If you want to make your hot chocolate more adult-friendly, you can add a splash of your favorite liquor to it. There are many types of alcohol that can go well with hot chocolate, such as bourbon, whiskey, coffee liqueur, Bailey’s, or crème de menthe. Alcohol can also help cut through some of the sweetness of the hot chocolate and make it more balanced and sophisticated.
Orange
If you like the combination of chocolate and citrus, you can infuse your hot chocolate with some orange flavor. You can add both the juice and zest of an orange to your hot milk and chocolate mixture, and let it simmer for a few minutes to release the orange flavor. You can also use orange extract or orange liqueur for a more intense flavor.
Flavored marshmallows
If you want to add some fun and whimsy to your hot chocolate, you can use flavored marshmallows instead of the plain ones. There are many flavors of marshmallows available in the market, such as mint, cookie dough, cinnamon churro, or toasted coconut. You can also make your own flavored marshmallows at home with some gelatin, sugar, and flavoring. Flavored marshmallows can add a burst of flavor and texture to your hot chocolate.
White chocolate
If you are not a fan of dark or milk chocolate, you can make your hot chocolate with white chocolate instead. White chocolate is made from cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids, and has a sweet and creamy flavor. You can use white chocolate chips or bars to melt into your hot milk, and add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. You can also decorate your white hot chocolate with some chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or edible glitter for a festive look.
Coffee
If you need a caffeine boost, you can turn your hot chocolate into a mocha by adding some coffee or espresso to it. Coffee and chocolate are a classic pair that can complement each other and create a rich and satisfying drink. You can use brewed coffee, instant coffee, or espresso shots to add to your hot chocolate, depending on how strong you like it. You can also use coffee-flavored syrups or liqueurs for a more subtle coffee flavor.
Chili and orange zest
If you want to try something different and exotic, you can add some chili and orange zest to your hot chocolate. This combination can create a spicy and tangy hot chocolate that can awaken your senses and warm you up. You can use chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chili peppers to add some heat to your drink, and orange zest to add some citrusy freshness. You can also add some cinnamon or nutmeg for more spice and flavor.
Conclusion
Hot chocolate is a delicious and comforting drink that can be customized in many ways. Whether you want to add some extra flavor, sweetness, creaminess, spice, or fun to your drink, there are many things you can put in hot chocolate to make it your own. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, milk, and toppings to create your perfect cup of hot chocolate. The next time you crave a warm and cozy drink, try adding one of these ingredients to your hot chocolate and enjoy!