Rediscover True Hot ChocolateHot chocolate and/or homemade hot cocoa was the drink of our childhood topped with marshmallows to warm us up on a cold day. But as we grew up, so did our taste for this delicious warm beverage. No longer just for kids, it can now be enjoyed as a truly heavenly experience. It can be simple or complex, exotic and decadent, but it is always, always delicious and satisfying.
How do like your chocolate?Hot Hot Hot ! We’ve got hot cocoa recipes to suit your many moods. Feeling nostalgic? Put on the old records, put your feet up and enjoy a steamy mug of old fashioned hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or marshmallows (or both).
Maybe you’ve had a long day of skiing or hiking and want to relax and unwind. Or maybe you’re just in the mood to party. Either way, these adults only alcoholic recipes guaranteed to satisfy. There’s more...If you think you can only enjoy hot cocoa on a cold winter day, think again. The origins of drinking chocolate are steeped in the history of the tropical climates.Drinking chocolate dates back to ancient civilization. The Aztecs drank a cold, thick bitter beverage made from cocoa beans ad a variety of herbs and spices. In fact, Emperor Montezuma is said to have consumed 50 cups of chocolate a day! “The divine drink, which builds up resistance and fights fatigue. A cup of this precious drink (cocoa) permits a man to walk for a whole day without food.” Montezuma - Aztec Emperor (c. 1480-1520) It’s easy to transport yourself to another time and place with Mexican Hot Chocolate And best of all...There's sweet news about hot cocoaResearchers at Cornell University have shown that the popular winter beverage contains more antioxidants per cup than a similar serving of red wine or tea and may be a healthier choice.“...a cup or two of hot cocoa every once in a while can provide a delicious, warm and healthy way to obtain more antioxidants." Although you can enjoy cocoa either hot or cold, the researcher says that the hot version tends to trigger the release of more antioxidants than its cold counterpart. Don’t forget... Christmas is just around the corner, and it’s never too soon to start thinking about shopping! A chocolate gift basket would make a great Christmas present. In fact, it would make a great gift just about any time of the year! And while you’re making your list and checking it twice, whip up a mug or a jug of
Candy Cane Hot Chocolate
, the perfect Christmas drink. Add a couple of candy canes or some peppermint schnapps to really put you in the mood!
Whatever the reason, whatever the season, hot chocolate is a drink that just makes you feel so darn good. No wonder we’ve been drinking it all of our lives.
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“But there’s always time for hot chocolate, made with milk and grated nutmeg, vanilla, chilli, brown sugar, caradamom and 70% couverture chocolate - the only chocolate worth buying she says - and it tastes rich and just slightly bitter on the back of the tongue, like caramel as it begins to turn. The chilli gives it a touch of heat - never too much, just a taste...” Joanne Harris, “The Lollipop Shoes”
Feeling saucy and sophisticated? Want to impress someone special? It’s deceptively easy to make and enjoy gourmet hot chocolate fine enough to satisfy even the most discerning choc-o-holic!
