It's a drink. It's a dessert. It's a little bit of both. When it comes to cold weather, there's no better way to warm up than with a cup of piping hot chocolate. You'll be hard-pressed to find a child who doesn't enjoy the comfort of this traditional winter treat. {relatedarticles}Just when you thought this delicious drink couldn't get any better, it does. We've got some simple ways to stir things up. The first staple you need to have on hand is the evergreen hot chocolate package -- you know, the "just add water" kind. For a combo that's mint to be, follow the directions and prepare the hot chocolate. Then add two pieces of chocolate mint candy and stir until the chocolate melts. Top with marshmallows and enjoy a refreshing spin on hot chocolate. For a drink that rings of Reese's, stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter and top with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.
Feel like getting fired up? Combine a pouch of hot chocolate, a pinch of chili powder, a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a tablespoon of chocolate chips. Stir in boiling milk or water and top with whipped cream. Of course, finding just the right hot chocolate recipe is never black or white... or is it? {relatedarticles}With this hot chocolate recipe, you combine four squares of Baker's chocolate, 2 cups of skim milk, 3 drops of vanilla, cinnamon and ground cloves for a chocolate AND vanilla surprise. Crush up the chocolate and melt with milk and vanilla, but don't let it boil. Whisk until foamy and pour into mugs. Add a pinch of cinnamon and pinch of cloves. For a more adult take on this classic, blend an ounce of hot chocolate mix, a cup of hot milk and an ounce of butterscotch schnapps. Combine all ingredients in a mug and drink up. Sip on these great recipes, and you'll never look at hot chocolate the same again.