Growing up (i'm sure like a lot of families) my siblings and I would gather in the living room on Christmas Eve to hear my dad read "The Night Before Christmas." It has always been a favorite tradition of mine, but what always seemed to make it extra special was the tray of hot cocoa my mom would serve us while we listed to my dad read the book. Talk about a special and delicious evening! I have to admit that even though I am a fully grown adult, I still enjoy this tradition. I still have the same copy of the The Night Before Christmas that my dad used to read to us, and while I still incorporate the hot cocoa aspect, I have taken it up a notch and now serve up a Christmas Eve Hot Cocoa Bar with all of the fixings. Here is how I go about creating this delicious holiday treat:
Hot Chocolate Bar Suggestions
- Williams Sonoma Classic Hot Chocolate
- Gourmet Marshmallows (here and here)
- Peppermint Sticks or Chocolate Peppermint Stirrers
- Chocolate Shavings (to garnish)
- Whipped Cream (see this recipe)
- Marshmallow Cream
- Gingerbread House Mug Toppers
- An Assortment of Cookies (I love this homemade recipe)
- Godiva Chocolate Liqueur (for those age 21+)
- Hot Cocoa Mugs (here and here)
Whether you are reading a classic Christmas story to the kids before bed or looking for a fun dessert idea to serve at your holiday party, a Hot Cocoa Bar is always a crowd pleaser.
