Valentine’s Day Hot Chocolate Ideas

Time is running out for Valentine’s Day treat ideas! For those who really just want to hang out with their honey, I have three hot chocolates for you to whip up, spike, drink by the fire… Whatever you want.

Nutella Hot Chocolate with Frangelico

I have already done a post on the Nutella Hot Chocolate with Frangelico which is so easy and delicious, a sure-fire way to impress your special someone with minimal effort. Just milk and a some Nutella? Yup, that really is all it takes!

Heart-Shaped Decorated Marshmallows

For those of you who literally find yourself with just a can of hot chocolate mix on your hands, why don’t you try and add a visual touch which will bring some eye candy to the mix?

Get a couple of marshmallows and put some icing sugar on a cutting board. Slice around a third across the marshmallow and flatten with your hand or a rolling pin. Get out a cutter and cut out a pretty shape. I love hearts so that is what I used.

Add a little water to the exposed side of the marshmallow. This will make it pretty sticky. Then add food colour and/or sprinkles. Whatever you want! Give it some time to dry and you will have the prettiest hot chocolate around.

Chai-Spiced Hot Chocolate

I was a Chai-virgin when I made this hot chocolate. Something about adding black pepper to a drink kind of always freaked me out. I did want to try finally try these flavours though. I realized an alternative hot chocolate for those who do not normally enjoy sweet drinks may be tricky to please with something as old fashioned as hot chocolate. This approach suddenly seemed liked a natural choice

When I tested this recipe I made it for one. My guess for two would be to combine in a medium sauce pan: two cups of low fat milk, 1/3 cup of bittersweet chocolate chips, 5 cardamom pods, coarsely cracked, 1/2 tsp of whole but cracked allspice, 1 cinnamon stick broken in half, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 tbsp golden brown sugar and 2 coins of fresh ginger.

Bring to almost a simmer, whisking frequently. Remove from heat and let steep 10 minutes. Mix in 1/4 tsp vanilla. Strain and serve.

I was shocked! It was earthy, less crazy-sweet, heart-warming and deep. I would have to be in a special mood to make this again, one that is searching for adventure more than comfort. For the discerning foodie, this would take her/him a little by surprise without being too different or weird. In fact, I think it would be perfect.

Whatever you do to celebrate Valentine’s Day tomorrow, I hope you take care of yourself too. I am taking a personal day to unplug and do whatever I want. We all need a day to honour ourselves.

My only question is, which hot chocolate will I make for me and my honey?!