As temperatures cool down this winter, it’s important to know the best ways to stay warm and cozy all season long. When you want nothing more than to snuggle up with a good book (or movie) and a cup of steaming hot cocoa, the flavor makes all the difference. Before you mix the perfect cup of sweet chocolatey goodness, consider your options. This guide to all things hot chocolate is sure to save you. It’s hot chocolate 101– how hard could it be?
Starbucks
If you’re not an avid coffee drinker, but still love the red holiday cups that come out every November, hot chocolate is the way to go. You can never go wrong with a cup of classic plain, but why not mix things up? Starbucks offers a variety of hot chocolate flavors, including toasted white, salted caramel, peppermint and snickerdoodle. All of these sound delicious, but if you don’t see something that gives you the warm and fuzzies, try ordering a zebra hot chocolate off the secret menu (hot chocolate with two pumps of white chocolate). Whichever flavor you decide, the rich sensation is more than enough to warm up a cold and snowy day!
Dunkin
For those of you with a super sweet tooth, Dunkin hot chocolate should be at the top of your list. It’s thick and creamy with a sugary kick– but don’t worry, there is still PLENTY of chocolate packed in there. I love a classic with fresh whipped cream, but there are so many yummy flavors to choose from I can’t help trying something new every time. Try salted caramel, mint, or Oreo for a twist, or choose from 6 different flavor shots for just a taste of something different. The best part is that when it’s too cold to leave the house, you can make it at home with Dunkin k-cups, so you can be warm and cozy anytime, anywhere.
Ghirardelli
The sweetness doesn’t stop! Ghirardelli hot chocolate mix is a best seller during the winter months, because you can buy it in bulk. Whether you’re buying individual packets, or a resealable tub, the cocoa powder is sure to last all winter long. It is so easy to make, yet tastes so gourmet. All it takes is a little boiling water or milk for extra thickness, and a spoon to stir. Bam! Delicious, rich, creamy hot chocolate in just a few minutes. My all-time favorite is peppermint, but it’s only around for a limited time!
Cadbury
Nothing says warm and fuzzy like the Cadbury bunny– he’s not just adorable, but his hot chocolate is rich and delish! They like to keep it simple with only one classic flavor, but it’s so darn good that they don’t need to create more. Because Cadbury is an English brand, there are only certain places in America to buy them. Superstores like Target and Walmart sell them, and they can also be bought on Amazon. Cadbury hot chocolate mix tastes the best when swirled with warm milk to bring out the flavor that sweetens up any bitter afternoon.
Swiss Miss
A staple item to keep in the cupboard this winter, Swiss Miss is the go-to when there’s nothing else. It’s so classic and easy to make but also so rich and delicious. I know what you’re thinking, hot chocolate is nothing without marshmallows. Swiss Miss agrees! They make a version that contains mini marshmallows in the packet with the powder. There are so many of them, it looks like snow floating in your cup. The sweet sticky marshmallows followed by the warm creamy chocolate is enough to make all your winter worries melt away.
