Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate

Save time by making a big batch of homemade hot chocolate for your holiday parties! Not only will your guests go back for seconds, but everyone will love a mug of the creamiest hot chocolate on a cold day. This recipe only takes 10 minutes to prepare. Set your slow cooker on low and let it do the work for you! Top the best hot chocolate with fluffy mini marshmallows and homemade whipped cream.

Ingredients Needed

This hot chocolate recipe is simple with seven staple ingredients that you probably already have stocked in your pantry. It’s almost as easy as opening an envelope of hot cocoa.

• Heavy cream
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Whole milk
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Semisweet chocolate chips
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Homemade Whipped Cream

Treat yourself this holiday season to homemade whipped cream! It takes less than five minutes to whip up a batch. Here are some tips for success:

Serving Suggestions And Garnish Ideas

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate is a great way to serve a crowd, and one benefit is that guests can customize their drink to their personal liking. Along with your delicious whipped cream, provide a small tray of toppings such as:

• mini candy canes or peppermint sticks
• chocolate shavings, milk, dark, or white chocolate
• mini marshmallows and large marshmallows
• cinnamon sticks
• cocoa powder in a shaker
• nutmeg
• chocolate syrup and caramel syrup for drizzling
• crushed peppermints
• toffee bits
• mini chocolate chips
• crushed graham crackers
• sprinkles
• instant espresso powder

Storage And Reheating Instructions

Can this recipe be made on the stovetop? Yes, the stove can be used as an alternative to a crock-pot. Heat all ingredients over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat when fully warmed.

How to store and reheat hot chocolate? Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator. We suggest using a pitcher with a lid or glass mason jars. Reheat by the cupful in the microwave in 30-second increments until warm.

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate Recipe

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Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate

Get cozy with a delicious and easy recipe for Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate. Perfect for cold winter nights or holiday gatherings, this creamy drink will warm you up from the inside out. Top it with homemade whipped cream and fluffy marshmallows!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword hot chocolate, hot drinks

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 3 hours hours

Total Time 3 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

Servings 12 servings

Author Katrina Bahl

Equipment

• 1 slow cooker 4 quarts or larger
• 1 Hand Mixer

Ingredients

For the Hot Chocolate

• 4 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 cups whole milk 2% can be substituted
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips chopped chocolate bar can be substituted
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

For the Hot Chocolate

• ADD 2 cups of heavy cream to the slow cooker, WHISK in the unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth. ADD the remaining 2 cups of heavy cream. 
• ADD the remaining ingredients: milk, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. WHISK all ingredients for 1-2 minutes. 
• Cover and COOK on Low for 5 hours or High for 3 hours, STIRRING occasionally until ready to serve.

For the Whipped Cream

• BEAT whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer, or 5 minutes manually by hand.
• For best results, keep ingredients and equipment cold and begin mixing on low speed. As ingredients become incorporated, increase speed.

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Hand Mixer

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Hot Chocolate Recipes

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The post Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There is no denying that these two classic eggnog and hot cocoa flavors are wintertime hot drink favorites.  This ultimate seasonal drink combines the flavors you love for a wonderful holiday treat!

Top with marshmallows, white chocolate shavings, or warm, frothed milk, and don’t forget the sprinkle of nutmeg!

You will love entertaining with this Eggnog Hot Chocolate by doubling the recipe and putting the ingredients in the slow cooker before guests arrive. It tastes delicious, requires almost zero effort, and makes your home smell amazing.

Eggnog Hot Cocoa Key Ingredients

This recipe can be prepared using store-bought eggnog or homemade. Our Homemade Eggnog recipe is made with simple ingredients and cooks in 30 minutes.

A mixture of milk and heavy whipping cream will result in a thicker hot chocolate. Or use full fat, whole milk.

The quality of your white chocolate will directly impact the final result. We suggest using a finely chopped white chocolate baking bar or chocolate melting wafers.

Top with Mallow Bits, or mini marshmallows. Use a nutmeg grinder for the perfect touch of holiday spice.

How to Prepare Eggnog Hot Chocolate

This recipe can be prepared two ways- stovetop or slow cooker (Crock Pot). The recipe can be doubled to make a large batch for a party or holiday gathering.

On the stove, combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk or stir constantly until the chocolate is melted and combined. Remove from heat and serve.

For the slow cooker, combine all ingredients on high for 2 hours. Stir every 30 minutes to ensure the chocolate doesn’t burn.

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Eggnog Hot Chocolate

Satisfy your holiday cravings with this delicious Eggnog Hot Chocolate recipe. Made with rich white chocolate and creamy eggnog, it's the perfect warm and cozy drink to enjoy all season long.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword eggnog, hot chocolate, hot drinks, white chocolate

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4 Cups

Calories 513kcal

Author Katrina Bahl

Ingredients

• 3 cups eggnog
• 1 cup milk any kind you prefer or swap for heavy cream or half and half
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces white chocolate chopped
• ground nutmeg optional
• whipped cream or frothed milk for topping optional

Instructions

For the Stovetop

• In a medium saucepan, STIR together eggnog, milk, vanilla, and chopped white chocolate.
• COOK over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the white chocolate melts and the drink comes to a simmer. (Do not let it come to a boil.) Continue to stir to ensure all of the white chocolate has melted.
• REMOVE from heat and serve. Top with fresh ground nutmeg, whipped cream, or frothed milk.

For the Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)

• ADD eggnog, milk, vanilla extract, and chopped white chocolate to the slow cooker.
• COVER and cook on high for 2 hours, stirring well every 30 minutes until the white chocolate is melted.
• SERVE and top with nutmeg, whipped cream, or frothed milk.

Notes

• Can I add alcohol to this recipe? You can add brandy, bourbon, rum, Bailey’s Irish cream, or peppermint schnapps.
• Can I make this with milk chocolate? You can make eggnog hot chocolate with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or semisweet dark chocolate.
• What kind of milk can I use in this recipe? We suggest whole milk, heavy whipping cream, or half and half for a creamy texture; however, skim or 2% will also work. 

Nutrition

Calories: 513kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 132mg | Sodium: 177mg | Sugar: 52g | Calcium: 436mg

More Eggnog Recipes

Eggnog Muffins with Eggnog Glaze

Best Homemade Eggnog

Eggnog Cookies with Eggnog Glaze

The Great American Milk Drive

Together, we are working with The Great American Milk Drive to provide gallons of milk to families in your local community. Milk is the MOST requested item at food pantries but the LEAST donated.

Items Used in This Recipe

Nutmeg Grinder

Buy Now →

white chocolate baking bar

Buy Now →

Mallow Bits

Buy Now →

The post Eggnog Hot Chocolate appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

There is just something about that grumpy green grinch that I can’t resist. My kids get a kick out of watching me tear up every time his heart grows. Also, I’m in love with sweet Max.

The Grinch didn’t hate Christmas, he hated people, and I can sometimes relate, to be honest. I think the best things about this 2020 Christmas are online shopping and hot chocolate bombs.

Grinch Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate bombs are made with a sphere-shaped silicone mold. You can either pour hot milk over them or place them into a mug of hot milk—the chocolate sphere bursts open with hot cocoa powder, marshmallows, and small candies.

Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs turn green when you stir them into the milk. Along with the red candy sprinkle on the outside, the inside reveals a puffy pink marshmallow.

How to Assemble Max and Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs

You will need:

• a silicone half-sphere mold
• bright green chocolate candy melts
• milk chocolate candy melts
• hot chocolate powder (white or dark chocolate)
• mini marshmallows
• puffy heart marshmallows

For the decorations:

• jumbo heart-shaped candy sprinkles
• green sanding sugar
• yellow chocolate
• red frosting or fondant

There are two different methods to make the hot chocolate bombs. Scroll to the end for a printable recipe card.

Spoon and Spread Method:

1. Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice.
2. Using the back of a spoon, spread chocolate along the bottom and up the silicone mold sides.
3. Chill the mold for 5-10 minutes until the chocolate is set.
4. Repeat spooning/spreading and chilling for a second coat of chocolate.
5. Unmold chocolate shells and add cocoa powder and marshmallows to one half of each shell.
6. Heat the rim of the second half of chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.

Fill and Spill Method:

1. Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice.
2. Fill all 6 cavities of your silicone mold. Set aside for 5 minutes.
3. Spill the excess chocolate from the silicone mold.
4. The shell should be thick enough not to need a second chocolate coat.
5. Turn mold over and let chill upside down for 5-10 minutes in the refrigerator.
6. Unmold chocolate shells and add cocoa powder and marshmallows to one half of each shell.
7. Heat the rim of the second half of chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.

Max Grinch Hot Chocolate Bomb

Top the Grinch hot chocolate bomb off with a drizzle of green chocolate and green sanding sugar. Place a jumbo heart sprinkle on top or pipe with frosting.

Pipe antler shapes with yellow chocolate onto parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Dry until firm and set. Drizzle the Max hot chocolate bomb with milk chocolate and place a single antler on top. Use red icing to make a bow.

Festive Holiday Hot Chocolate

These Max and Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs are part of a series of fun, festive hot chocolate bombs.

Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

Elf on the Shelf Hot Chocolate Bombs

Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate Bombs (coming soon!)

Place the hot chocolate bomb into a mug, then carefully pour hot milk over it. As the milk melts the chocolate orb, it will pop open to reveal the cocoa powder, marshmallows, and other goodies.

Stir it all up to enjoy your hot chocolate!

Print

Max and Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs

Grinch Hot Chocolate Bombs burst open with puffy heart-shaped marshmallows and white chocolate hot cocoa that turns green!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword christmas, hot chocolate, hot drinks

Prep Time 1 hour hour

Servings 4

Author Katrina Bahl

Ingredients

• 1 cup bright green chocolate melting candy discs
• 1 cup milk chocolate melting candy discs
• 2 Tablespoons yellow chocolate melting candy discs
• 4 Tablespoons hot chocolate powder white or dark chocolate
• 4 Tablespoons mini marshmallows plus extra if desired
• 4 marshmallows heart-shaped
• 1 tube red frosting found in the baking aisle
• 2 jumbo sprinkles heart-shaped

Instructions

Spoon and Spread Method:

• Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice. 
• Using the back of a spoon, spread chocolate along the bottom and up the silicone mold sides. Chill the mold for 5-10 minutes until the chocolate is set.
• Repeat spooning/spreading and chilling for a second coat of chocolate.
• Unmold chocolate shells and add powder and marshmallows to one half of each shell.
• Using a griddle on low heat or a warm plate, heat the rim of the second half of the chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.

Fill and Spill Method:

• Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice. 
• Completely fill all 6 cavities of your silicone mold. Set aside for 5 minutes. 
• Spill the excess chocolate from the silicone mold. The shell should be thick enough not to need a second chocolate coat. 
• Turn mold over and let chill upside down for 5-10 minutes in the refrigerator.
• Unmold chocolate shells and add powder and marshmallows to one half of each shell.
• Using a griddle on low heat or a warm plate, heat the rim of the second half of the chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.

Notes

The post Grinch Hot Chocolate appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

Pour warm milk over these adorable Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs and watch them pop open with hot cocoa and marshmallows. Give it a quick stir, and you’ll be sipping the most deliciously rich hot chocolate! This is a sponsored recipe on behalf of the American Dairy Association Mideast.

Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs are small, hollow orbs of chocolate filled with hot cocoa powder (white or dark chocolate), mini marshmallows, and other goodies (like crushed candy cane pieces and colorful sprinkles).

Pour warm milk over the orb, and it pops open in an exciting way! Hot chocolate is a great way to get in a serving of dairy during the cold winter months. Children especially will love watching these snowmen pop open and melt.

How to Assemble Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

You will need the following:

• a silicone half-sphere mold
• 2 cups white chocolate melting candy discs
• 4 Tablespoons hot chocolate powder (white or dark chocolate)
• 4 Tablespoons mini marshmallows

For the decorations:

• black frosting
• orange sprinkles or small candies
• chocolate candies (like M&Ms)
• red frosting or fondant

There are two different methods to make hot chocolate bombs. Scroll for a printable recipe card.

Spoon and Spread Method:

1. Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice.
2. Using the back of a spoon, spread chocolate along the bottom and up the silicone mold sides.
3. Chill the mold for 5-10 minutes until the chocolate is set.
4. Repeat spooning/spreading and chilling for a second coat of chocolate.
5. Unmold chocolate shells and add cocoa powder and marshmallows to one-half of each shell.
6. Heat the rim of the second half of the chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.
7. Add snowman face and earmuffs with ready-made frosting and candies.

Fill and Spill Method:

1. Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice.
2. Completely fill all 6 cavities of your silicone mold. Set aside for 5 minutes.
3. Spill the excess chocolate from the silicone mold.
4. The shell should be thick enough not to need a second chocolate coat.
5. Turn mold over and let chill upside down for 5-10 minutes in the refrigerator.
6. Unmold chocolate shells and add cocoa powder and marshmallows to one-half of each shell.
7. Heat the rim of the second half of the chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.
8. Add snowman face and earmuffs with ready-made frosting and candies.

How to Store Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

Keep the Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

When ready to enjoy, slowly pour 6-8 ounces of warm milk over the hot chocolate bomb. Alternatively, you can place the hot chocolate bomb into a mug of warm milk and wait for it to pop open. Stir and enjoy!

Milk is the No. 1 nutritious product requested by food banks. Each year, dairy companies work with local food banks to provide nutritious dairy foods to those in need. In 2020, Feeding America distributed 469 million pounds of dairy products in its network.

Although milk and plant-based beverages sit side-by-side in the dairy case, non-dairy alternatives often do not provide the same nutrient profile as cow’s milk. Additionally, you can count on real, white cow’s milk to have the same three ingredients (milk, vitamin A, and vitamin D) no matter what brand you choose or in which grocery store it is purchased.

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Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs

Pour warm milk over these adorable Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs and watch them pop open with hot cocoa and marshmallows. Give it a quick stir, and you'll be sipping the most deliciously rich hot chocolate!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword christmas, hot chocolate, hot drinks

Prep Time 1 hour hour

Servings 4

Author Katrina Bahl

Ingredients

• 2 cups white chocolate melting candy discs
• 4 Tablespoons hot chocolate powder white or dark chocolate
• 4 Tablespoons mini marshmallows plus extra if desired
• 1 tube black frosting found in the baking aisle
• 1 tube red frosting found in the baking aisle
• 4 orange sprinkles or small candies
• 8 small circle candies like M&Ms

Instructions

Spoon and Spread Method:

• Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice. 
• Using the back of a spoon, spread chocolate along the bottom and up the silicone mold sides. Chill the mold for 5-10 minutes until the chocolate is set.
• Repeat spooning/spreading and chilling for a second coat of chocolate.
• Unmold chocolate shells and add powder and marshmallows to one half of each shell.
• Using a griddle on low heat, or warm plate, heat the rim of the second half of the chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.
• Add snowman face and earmuffs with ready-made frosting and candies. Place the hot chocolate bomb on top of another tablespoon of white chocolate to look like it's melting.

Fill and Spill Method:

• Melt chocolate candy discs. You can use chocolate chips for this. However, you may need to add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate to get it to spread smoothly. Chocolate candy discs that have already been tempered are the best choice. 
• Completely fill all 6 cavities of your silicone mold. Set aside for 5 minutes. 
• Spill the excess chocolate from the silicone mold. The shell should be thick enough not to need a second chocolate coat. 
• Turn mold over and let chill upside down for 5-10 minutes in the refrigerator.
• Unmold chocolate shells and add powder and marshmallows to one half of each shell.
• Using a griddle on low heat, or warm plate, heat the rim of the second half of the chocolate mold and place it on top of the first to make a full sphere. Depending on the size and coats of chocolate, you should end up with 3-4 hot chocolate bombs.
• Add snowman face and earmuffs with ready-made frosting and candies. Place the hot chocolate bomb on top of another tablespoon of white chocolate to look like it's melting.

Video

More Hot Chocolate Recipes

Our family makes a big slow cooker batch of Eggnog Hot Chocolate to enjoy during family gatherings.

Making homemade whipped cream makes hot chocolate even more special. Try our Strawberry White Hot Chocolate with Homemade Whipped Cream.

Don’t have time to make a hot chocolate bomb? Try our festive Candy Cane Steamers with Candy Cane (Peppermint) Simple Syrup or the equally fun and delicious Gingerbread Steamer.

To meet Ohio and West Virginia dairy farmers, learn more about how farmers care for their cows, and follow milk’s journey from farm to fridge, visit Drink-Milk.com, and follow the American Dairy Association Mideast on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Items Used in this Recipe

The post Melting Snowman Hot Chocolate Bombs appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

Maybe you’re not quite ready to try peanut butter Buckeye Eggnog yet. Maybe you’re not even a fan of eggnog. Well, neither was I until I tasted the holy grail of freshly made Best Homemade Eggnog. It comes together so quickly with simple ingredients.

What is Eggnog?

Eggnog is made of egg yolks, sugar, a mixture of milk and cream, and can be spiked with liquor. Some recipes include whipped egg whites as well.

Dating back to 17th century England, eggnog was typically only served by the very wealthy. Before eggnog, it was common to mix warm milk with wine or even beer. Yikes! These were called milk punch or “posset.”

Am I drinking raw eggs?

Traditionally most eggnog recipes were made with raw eggs. However, many countries now restrict the use of raw eggs in commercial products. It’s always best to read labels if you are concerned.

If you are making eggnog at home, you can use pasteurized eggs or partially cook the eggs in the milk to make a custard.

How to serve eggnog?

Eggnog is typically served chilled. Prepare it at least a few hours before serving or transfer the eggnog to a large metal bowl over ice to cool it down quickly after preparing.

Have plenty of fresh whipped cream on hand, an assortment of liquor such as bourbon, rum, or cognac, and ground cinnamon and nutmeg.

I am OBSESSED with this nutmeg grinder. I have been putting nutmeg on everything that comes out of my kitchen this month since I can’t stop using it! Coffee with freshly ground nutmeg is my new boyfriend.

Can I prepare eggnog beforehand?

Many people say that homemade eggnog is better the next day. So feel free to make it in advance. Since I do not add liquor to the recipe before serving, I try to consume it within 1 week.

Print

Best Homemade Eggnog

The best homemade eggnog is made with simple classic ingredients and comes together in 30 minutes. Treat yourself this holiday season. You'll be coming back for more!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword christmas, drinks, eggnog

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Chill Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 12

Calories 110kcal

Author Katrina Bahl

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups whole milk divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 12 cinnamon sticks optional for garnish
• Whipped cream optional for garnish
• Pinch of ground cinnamon optional for garnish
• Pinch of ground nutmeg optional for garnish

Instructions

• In a large, heavy saucepan, BEAT eggs, sugar, and salt until blended. STIR in 2 cups of milk and 2-3 cinnamon sticks.
• COOK over low heat, stirring slowly and constantly until the mixture is thick enough to coat a metal spoon with a thin film (about 10-15 minutes). The temperature should read 160°F. Do not allow to boil.
• REMOVE from heat and STIR in the remaining 2 cups of milk, then vanilla. DISCARD cinnamon sticks. Optional- For perfectly smooth eggnog, POUR through a sieve or cheesecloth before chilling.
• Optional- REFRIGERATE in an air-tight container for two hours or overnight. Can also be served immediately.
• TOP with any combination of whipped cream, freshly ground nutmeg, and cinnamon sticks.

Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 118mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Calcium: 138mg

Looking for more holiday drinks?

Eggnog Hot Chocolate

Gingerbread Steamer

Candy Cane Steamer

Peppermint Mocha Sticks

The post Best Homemade Eggnog appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

I have partnered with The Ohio Poultry Association for this recipe- one of my most favorite companies to work with!

When I tell people that I love partnering with Ohio Poultry I sometimes get confused looks since I mostly blog about sweets. But I just give them a few seconds to remember that we get EGGS from poultry then it all falls into place.

In fact most of the recipes I have done have been buckeye themed: Peanut Butter Filled Buckeye Cupcakes, Buckeye Bark with Peanut Butter Buckeye Cheesecakes, and more.

I recently traveled to OPA (Ohio Poultry Accocoation) headquarters for a refresher on egg handling safety, farming practices, and recipe development. One of my most favorite simple recipes from the weekend was homemade eggnog.

Before that I would have told you that eggnog was a drink I could do without. I didn’t mind it but I was never one to look forward to it every year. Well let me tell you that HOMEMADE eggnog is something to get excited about!

The next step was obvious to me- I had to make buckeye eggnog at home! Chocolate eggnog has been out there for years, but have you ever had Buckeye Eggnog? The peanut butter and dark chocolate are perfectly smooth and pair well with the rich velvety texture of the eggnog. Give it a try!

And if you really want to elevate your eggnog you simple must get my favorite nutmeg grinder. It is so fun to use on coffee with a frothy whipped foam top as well!

What is Eggnog?

Eggnog is usually served at holiday gatherings. It is made of egg yolks, sugar, a mixture a milk and cream, and can be spiked with liquor. Some recipes include whipped egg whites as well.

Dating back to 17th century England eggnog was typically only served by the very wealthy. Before eggnog it was common to mix warm milk with wine or even beer. Yikes! These were called milk punch or “posset.”

Am I drinking raw eggs?

Traditionally most eggnog recipes were made with raw eggs however many countries now restrict the use of raw eggs in commercial products. It’s always best to read labels if you are concerned.

If you are making eggnog at home you can use pasteurized eggs or partially cook the eggs in milk to make a custard.

How to serve eggnog?

Eggnog is typically served chilled so you will want to make it at least a few hours before serving or transfer the eggnog to a large metal bowl over ice to cool it down quickly after preparing.

Have plenty of fresh whipped cream on hand, an assortment of liquor such as bourbon, rum, or cognac, and ground cinnamon and nutmeg.

Can I prepare eggnog beforehand?

Many people say that homemade eggnog is better the next day. So feel free to make it in advance. Since I do not add liquor to the recipe before serving I try to consume within 1 week.

Ohio is one of the leading producers of eggs in the country. Many are family farms who are incredibly committed to producing safe, high-quality eggs and keeping their hens healthy and free from disease. If you have questions about egg storage and handling safety, egg appearance (difference between white/brown, etc), or general egg production please visit Egg Safety.org. For egg recipes visit Ohio Poultry Association. (more…)

The post Buckeye Eggnog appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

I kind of have a thing for sipping all different kinds of hot chocolate. At Christmastime, my husband requests Eggnog Hot Chocolate. My kids always love having Hot Chocolate on a Stick handy. So I thought it was time to share my favorite- Strawberry White Hot Chocolate topped with fluffy layers of quick and easy Homemade Whipped Cream.

I began working with the American Dairy Association when my oldest was in first grade. Until that time, I had been insistent on my son choosing white milk only. But then I learned that Flavored milk contributes only 4% of the added sugars to children’s diets ages 2-18, while soft drinks and non-carbonated sweetened beverages contribute about 46% of the added sugars. I would much rather my son choose flavored milk than soda and some other packed lunch choices. Now I let my children choose milk-white, chocolate, or strawberry! It’s all delicious and nutritious.

I chose to make this Strawberry White Hot Chocolate with prepared strawberry milk. It did not disappoint. Start to finish, I was sipping on this sweet treat in under 15 minutes. I even shared it with my family. (Of course, I gave myself an extra dollop of whipped cream!)

Making whipped cream is so easy. I hope you try it at home. I’ve included a quick video tutorial. You can find the recipe and notes included below.

The powdered sugar in this recipe helps to stabilize the whipped cream so that it can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Treat yourself this Valentine’s Day!

Print

Strawberry White Hot Chocolate with Homemade Whipped Cream

Pink and pretty this Strawberry White Hot Chocolate uses prepared strawberry milk for a sweet hot chocolate mix-up. Top with homemade whipped cream made in under 1 minute!

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4 cups

Ingredients

• For the Hot Chocolate:
• 4 cups strawberry milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• whipped cream or frothed milk for topping optional
• For the Whipped Cream:
• 1 cup cream cold
• 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• For the Hot Chocolate: 
• In a medium sized pot stir together strawberry milk, vanilla, and white chocolate chips.
• Over medium heat cook, stirring occasionally until the white chocolate melts and the drink comes to a simmer.  (Do not let it come to a boil.)  Continue to stir to ensure all of the white chocolate has melted.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately. Top with fresh whipped cream or frothed milk.
• For the Whipped Cream:
• Beat cream for 30 seconds until it starts to thicken. If using an immersion blender use a slow up and down motion.
• Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix for 30-45 seconds more until soft peaks form.
• Use to top your favorite hot drink or dessert!

Video

For more Valentine’s Day recipes, information on dairy nutrition, and to meet Ohio and West Virginia dairy farmers, visit Drink-MIlk.com, and follow the American Dairy Association Mideast on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Share why you love dairy this February using #DairyLove!

I’m happy to partner with the American Dairy Association Mideast to bring you dairy-filled treats all year long. As always, the opinions expressed are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that I work with, and for stopping back to let me know how your family loved my recipes as much as our family does!

The post Strawberry White Hot Chocolate with Homemade Whipped Cream appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

I am the absolute WORST gift giver. I have no strategy. There are no lists. There’s no checking it twice. When I was 16 I gave my boyfriend (whom I had been dating less than 2 weeks) a pair of baby socks. BABY SOCKS. I thought it was hilarious because his feet were so big. He thought I was telling him something different.

Yeah.

He stuck it out through all of my awkward jokes and bad gifts through the years and married me anyway. Twenty years later I make a selection from his Amazon wishlist and call it a day. Except that’s not entirely true; I make him food gifts. I never go wrong there.

Bloom where you are planted, people.

We happen to love/adore/obsess over coffee in our house. Gone are the days of casual entertaining guests in our home and offering an evening cup of coffee. Now I think of it even before I open my eyes. Children are the best thing that has ever happened to the coffee industry.

These Peppermint Mocha Sticks are like an instant upgrade to your morning cup of coffee or your afternoon pick-me-up. Brew a cup of coffee, dunk and stir to release all of those festive flavors. Give the sticks as gifts (they are adorable!) or enjoy a few minutes of quite before the kids step off the bus this afternoon.

And have a freakin’ awesome Christmas.

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This is a compensated post for JET-PUFFED Marshmallows. Recipe developed independently; all opinions expressed are my own.

The best gifts are food gifts. I’ve decided that everyone in my life would benefit from a creamy mug of hot chocolate. And since everyone is different, these Hot Chocolate Sticks are the perfect gift to personalize- just dip and stir!

What to do with Hot Chocolate Sticks

These Hot Chocolate Sticks are great for holiday gift giving- teachers, mail carriers, neighbors, friends, etc.

Kids love making this recipe and they will take pride in giving homemade gifts!

If you aren’t gifting these you can set up a fun hot chocolate bar for a crowd. Make a variety of choices and set them up on a tray next to a crock pot of warm milk. Guests can ladle in a scoop of milk then pick their favorite Hot Chocolate Sticks flavors!

The recipe comes together quickly with little fuss. Dunk in a mug of warm milk and stir until melted. Crushed peppermint is a personal favorite and popular this time of year.

But can we talk about salted caramel?

For gifts I think popping a marshmallow on top is adorable. I used JET-PUFFED Vanilla and Chocolate Swirled Marshmallows.

You may also use a large JET-PUFFED Marshmallow, or for a fun festive look you can use any of the seasonal varieties such as Snowman Mallows, Peppermint Mini Marshmallows, Gingerbread Mallows, or Holiday Mallows.

Or keep it mini with my favorite JET-PUFFED Mallow Bits.

You really can’t go wrong!

How to Make Hot Chocolate Sticks

Melt the chocolate. If children are helping be sure to assist them with this step. Chocolate can burn- even in the microwave.

Assemble the dry ingredients into the bowl of your mixer, then pour the chocolate on top. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Place mixture into a large piping bag. Cut the tip off and squeeze into silicone molds. Alternatively you can use ziptop bags, but I suggest the “Freezer” versions that are thicker.

If you make these in a silicone mini cupcake pan they easily pop right out. You could also use paper muffin liners.

For a smooth top you can put them into a microwave for 20 seconds and tap on the counter top. (Please do not place foil cupcake liners into a microwave!)

Before chilling add whatever toppings you would like.

Print

Hot Chocolate Sticks

Try this easy Hot Chocolate Sticks recipe to make holiday gifts or an easy and delicious hot chocolate bar. Just dunk into warm milk and stir!

Course Dessert, Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword chocolate, drinks, holiday, homemade gifts, hot chocolate, peppermint

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Chill Time 4 hours hours

Total Time 4 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

Servings 16 sticks

Calories 40kcal

Ingredients

• 16 oz BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate 4 blocks
• 1 Cup confectioners sugar
• 1/2 Cup cocoa powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows or JET-PUFFED Mallow Bits

Instructions

• In a microwave safe bowl MELT chocolate according to package directions.
• In the bowl of your mixer fitted with the paddle attachment COMBINE confectioners sugar, cocoa, and salt.
• POUR the melted chocolate on top of the dry ingredients. Mix until incorporated fully.
• PLACE in a piping bag (or plastic zip bag), snip off the tip and pipe into 16 portions. Alternatively use a cookie scoop or small spoon. Mixture will be thick. If you use a silicone baking pan you can microwave it for 10-20 seconds after piping/scooping in the mixture.
• Top with JET-PUFFED Mallow Bits. Press craft stick into the center.
• Let cool 4 hours or overnight.

Notes

Variations:

1. Peppermint- top with crushed candy canes.
2. Salted Caramel- top with caramel and sea salt flakes.
3. Creamy Marshmallow- top with jumbo marshmallow.
4. Confetti cake- top with sprinkles for a winter birthday.

Nutrition

Calories: 40kcal

Connect with JET-PUFFED: Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | I’m happy to partner with JET-PUFFED to bring you marshmallow sweet treats all year long. As always, opinions expressed are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that I work with, and for stopping back to let me know how your family loved my recipes as much as our family does!

The post Hot Chocolate Sticks appeared first on In Katrinas Kitchen.

Gingerbread is one of our family’s favorite seasonal flavors so I knew that I wanted to create a Gingerbread Steamer recipe for the American Dairy Association Mideast and participate in a great cause. Milk steamers are the perfect beverage to serve during the holidays because they are enjoyed by children and adults alike. If you enjoy gingerbread you will love this warm cup of comfort!

I can’t ever in my life remember a time that I looked in my refrigerator and didn’t find milk. Sadly, many are not so fortunate. I was surprised to learn that nutrient-rich milk remains one of the most requested and least available items at our country’s food banks.

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