With the days beginning to get down right cold, it's that time of year where I like to have a big cup of something warm! I love all the toppings that specialty coffee shops provide so I decided to bring that joy into our home. And what better way to treat yourself than with a Hot Chocolate Station, and in the mornings a Coffee Bar.
I recently purchased a vintage Hoosier Cabinet Spice Rack and have been collecting coordinating glass spice jars to accommodate it. The jars are the perfect size for individual toppings. For our toppings bar I used Cinnamon Sticks, Sugar in the Raw, Milk Chocolate Sprinkles, creme de Pirouline Chocolate Hazelnut Wafers, White Chocolate Crisps, Peppermint and of course don't forget Marshmallows! For the Hot Cocoa Mix I used this recipe from Alton Brown. I decided to triple the recipe and store it in a large glass jar with instructions printed on the front. The station makes it easy to make a a traditional cup of cocoa or one with whip cream, peppermint & chocolate sprinkles.
Don't have vintage spice jars? No worries, small canning jars will do the trick.
The key is to get toppings you love and keep it simple!
The thing I love most about this is that I can leave everything out on my counter for continuous enjoyment. So whether friends & family stop by at the last minute or Brian and I are wanting an after dinner treat, it's as easy as boiling water or brewing coffee then customizing your drink!
I'm hoping to make this a season tradition here in our household.
What holiday treats are a custom for you and your family?