The holidays are a time to celebrate, show thanks and indulge. What better way to blend all three than whipping up some tasty creations to share and enjoy? Whether a quick bite or large feast, sweets are a delicacy during bitter, cold months. With these simple recipes, the season of cheer is sure to be savored well past winter.
Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
Not much is better than a fresh cup of hot chocolate on a crisp morning to start the day. All this recipe requires is a quick search through your kitchen cabinets. This mix can warm up even the most frigid brain freeze — making it the perfect treat to energize you during finals week as well as the break to follow.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 3 cups dry milk powder
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Directions:
- Stir sugar and cocoa powder together with a food processor or spoon until well-mixed.
- Add salt, cornstarch and cayenne. Mix thoroughly.
- Combine powdered milk.
- Evenly distribute chocolate chips within the mixture.
- Store in airtight container.
To make one mug:
- Fill 1/3 to 1/2 of a mug with cocoa mix. Add hot water or milk and stir until mix is dissolved.
Ideas for amping up your hot chocolate game:
- Top with marshmallows or whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon, shaved chocolate or crushed peppermints.
- For a mocha drink, add a shot of espresso before the hot water or milk.
- For spiced cocoa, add 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice seasoning.
Peppermint and White Chocolate Truffles
We all enjoy a hefty dessert occasionally, but sometimes a small grab-and-go dessert is all that’s needed. Truffles provide the balance of flavor and moderation that allows dessert fans to appreciate a treat without feeling stuffed. Try one, or the entire batch of 15.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/3 cup crushed candy canes
Directions:
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring in between until liquefied.
- Add white chocolate and peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Cover and refrigerate until firm.
- Use a scoop to measure out chocolate. Roll it in between your hands into a smooth ball, then roll it in a bowl of crushed candy canes.*
*Protip: Roll in candy canes the day you plan to serve them or else the candy layer will get sticky from absorbing moisture in the chocolate.