Hot Cocoa Charcuterie Board Recipe

A hot cocoa charcuterie board is a cozy, interactive treat perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings! This board combines all the toppings, mix-ins, and treats that take hot chocolate to the next level. Here’s how to make a stunning hot cocoa board for a fun DIY drink experience.

Ingredients

Choose a mix of toppings, add-ins, and treats to build variety and visual appeal.

Hot Chocolate Mixes

1. Hot Cocoa Mix – Classic chocolate powder mix, or offer a few types (like dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate).
2. Flavored Hot Chocolate – Options like peppermint, hazelnut, or salted caramel powder mixes.

Sweeteners and Add-ins

1. Mini Marshmallows – Classic fluffy marshmallows or gourmet flavors (like vanilla bean or peppermint).
2. Large Marshmallows – Toasted, chocolate-dipped, or plain.
3. Whipped Cream – For topping hot chocolate cups; use a dispenser or small bowl.
4. Candy Canes or Peppermint Sticks – Great for stirring and adding a peppermint kick.
5. Chocolate Chips – Dark, milk, and white chocolate chips for melting into the cocoa.
6. Caramel Squares or Sauce – Unwrap caramel squares or add a small dish of caramel sauce.
7. Cinnamon Sticks – For stirring and adding a warm, spicy aroma.
8. Flavored Syrups – Small bottles or dishes of vanilla, hazelnut, or peppermint syrup.

Garnishes

1. Chocolate Shavings – Use a dark chocolate bar and shave curls to sprinkle on top.
2. Cocoa Powder or Cinnamon Sugar – For dusting whipped cream.
3. Mini Meringues – Light and airy, they add a touch of sweetness.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Spoons – Pre-dip plastic or wooden spoons in melted chocolate for stirring.
5. Crushed Peppermint – For a festive, crunchy garnish.

Treats and Dippers

1. Cookies – Include sugar cookies, biscotti, gingerbread, or shortbread.
2. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – Adds a salty-sweet contrast.
3. Brownie Bites – Small, fudgy squares that are perfect for dipping.
4. Mini Donuts or Donut Holes – Soft, sweet, and ideal for dunking.
5. Cinnamon Roll Bites – Pre-cut and baked for a sweet treat.
6. Waffle Pieces – Serve small squares for a warm, crispy dipper.
7. Fruit – Slices of strawberries, apples, or bananas for a fresh option.

Assembly Instructions

1. Start with bowls: Place small bowls or ramekins on the board for loose items like marshmallows, chocolate chips, and caramel squares.
2. Arrange toppings and add-ins: Neatly arrange marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate chips, and cinnamon sticks around the board, filling in spaces.
3. Add treats and dippers: Place cookies, pretzels, brownie bites, and other dippable treats around the board.
4. Garnish bowls and spoons: Place dishes of chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, and crushed peppermint in open areas on the board. Include chocolate-dipped spoons or small sticks for stirring.
5. Finish with syrups and whipped cream: Set small syrup bottles or dishes with spoons on the side, along with a whipped cream dispenser or small bowl.

Serving Tips

• Set up near a hot cocoa station: Place the board near a hot water or milk dispenser, or use a large pot of hot cocoa for easy pouring.
• Provide mugs and small tongs: Arrange mugs next to the board, along with tongs and spoons for easy access to toppings.
• Offer a variety of flavors: Consider providing both classic and flavored hot cocoa for guests to customize.

This hot cocoa charcuterie board makes an inviting, delightful centerpiece, offering something for everyone to create their perfect warm and cozy drink!

 

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