Folks, it’s that time of the year again!! Have them sleigh bells ringing because ‘tis the season to ho-ho-ho down with some Mariah Carey blasting in the background. Baby, it’s cold outside, so we all need some peace, joy, and love with some hot cocoa! Y’all gonna be dashing through the snow and rockin’ around the Christmas tree because we about to get POPPIN with this heart-warming and satisfying mug of chocolatey goodness.

KK as you may know ya pal Al is always into giving so I’m blessing the Innis community this festive season with my signature spiced hot cocoa recipe. Easy, quick, and super yummy, this recipe can be multiplied to satisfy any number of guests. All it starts with is a homemade hot cocoa mix that you can prepare in advance and store for any snow-filled evening.

Hot Cocoa Mix

• 1 ¾ cup of icing sugar
• 1 ¼ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 2 ½ cup milk powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Sift all dry ingredients into a bowl and mix
2. Store in an air-tight container

Preparation

1. Add approximately 2 tbsp of the hot cocoa mix into a mug
2. Add hot milk or water
3. Stir and adjust for flavouring

It’s that simple!!

Jazz It Up (Suggestions When Serving)

• Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon
• Mix in 2 peppermint candies, top with whipped cream and extra crushed candies on top
• Serve with a candy cane or cinnamon stick to use as a stirring stick (peppermint or cinnamon flavour will gradually infuse in)
• Top with mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers

There is an endless medley of extra add-ons you can use to jingle up your cocoa, but honestly just the mix alone leads to a darn good cup of hot chocolate. Whether you’re naughty or nice, this recipe is bound to perk you up this cold winter season. So, snuggle with bae or curl up in bed all alone like me and enjoy a decadent, hot and vivacious cup of liquid gold. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!