Description
A simple, indulgent hot chocolate charcuterie board perfect for cozy gatherings, combining rich hot chocolate with a variety of sweet and salty treats for a memorable and interactive experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or any milk of choice (oat milk for dairy-free)
- 4 oz (115 g) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup (45 g) milk chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (50 g) mini marshmallows
- 1 cup biscotti or crisp cookies (almond or chocolate varieties)
- 1/2 cup chocolate-covered pretzels
- 1 cup fresh strawberries or raspberries
- 1/2 cup assorted nuts (toasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate bars or truffles (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Cinnamon sticks or star anise (for stirring)
- Sprinkles or crushed peppermint (seasonal touch)
Instructions
- Pour 2 cups (480 ml) of milk into a medium saucepan and warm over medium-low heat for about 3-4 minutes until hot but not boiling.
- Add 4 oz (115 g) chopped dark chocolate and 1/4 cup (45 g) milk chocolate chips. Stir constantly with a whisk until melted and smooth, about 5 minutes. Add more milk if too thick.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Arrange mini marshmallows, biscotti, chocolate-covered pretzels, fresh berries, nuts, and any extras on a charcuterie board using small bowls for marshmallows and nuts.
- Pour hot chocolate into mugs or cups. Add whipped cream if desired and garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise.
- Invite guests to dip, dunk, and savor the treats with the hot chocolate.
Notes
Use quality chopped chocolate bars instead of cocoa powder for richer flavor and smoother texture. Heat milk gently to avoid scorching. Keep marshmallows cold and separate to prevent melting. Prepare the board while the chocolate warms to save time. If chocolate seizes, whisk off heat adding warm milk as needed. Variations include dairy-free milk and chocolate, spiced hot chocolate, fruit-forward boards, and adult versions with alcohol.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 6
Keywords: hot chocolate, charcuterie board, cozy gatherings, winter recipe, dessert board, chocolate treats, easy dessert, crowd-pleaser