Kick off your Christmas with a classically delicious cup of hot chocolate or try something different for a bit more festive flourish.
1. A Gingerbread Hot Chocolate is a great example.
Step 1: Stir the sugar, cream, milk, orange zest and spices together in a saucepan, then bring to a simmer over a low heat. Then remove from the heat and pour through a sieve into a jug, discarding the orange zest. Step 2: Pour back into the pan and stir in the vanilla and chocolate until the chocolate has melted and is smooth. Step 3: Return the pan to a low heat to warm through, if needed, then pour into a heatproof mug, such as our stoneware Pearl mugs.
For an optional extra, top with whipped cream and a gingerbread biscuit for that additional flair.
2. For a more traditional approach, try your hand at a Bicerin. This Italian hot chocolate features a shot of espresso for an extra kick.
Step 1: Whisk the double cream in a bowl until it holds its shape but making sure it is still pourable. Set this aside for later. Step 2: Pour the milk or single cream into a saucepan with the dark chocolate. Stir continuously over a low-medium heat using a whisk until the mixture comes to the boil. Then reduce the heat to low and simmer while continuing to whisk. Add the demerara sugar to taste. Step 3: Warm two heatproof glasses by rinsing with hot water, then dry and pour in the espresso. Carefully pour over the chocolate mixture, then top with the whipped cream, hazelnuts and a pinch of cocoa powder. Serve this up in one of our gorgeous Pion mugs.
3. Why not try an alcoholic blend of Salted Caramel and Rum Hot Chocolate, perfect for festive gatherings.
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the rum and the dulce de leche until smooth then set aside for later. Step 2: Warm the milk in a saucepan over a medium heat until simmering. Then remove from the heat and add the chocolate and stir until melted. Pop the pan back on the heat until warm, then add the rum mixture and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Pour into our black stoneware mug which increase the look of indulgence and serve.
4. For parties, why not try Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate, a perfectly easy way to serve a crowd at Christmas.
Step 1: Pour the milk and double cream into the slow cooker. Add the dark chocolate and milk chocolate, then cover and cook on low for 2 hrs, stirring halfway through cooking. Step 2: Remove the lid and stir again, then continue to cook for a further 15-20 mins. Ladle into mugs and top with the marshmallows, dollops of cream and grated chocolate. Serve up your steaming hot cocoa in our rustic blue mugs.