It doesn’t quite feel like the holiday season until you have your hands wrapped around a mug of hot cocoa. The combined ingredients must have some sort of magical powers that can instantly warm you up and transport you back to a childhood snow day memory. I’m the office’s beverage alchemist so this theory holds up.
With the PNW’s winter tradition of keeping us on our toes and inside our homes, we’re finding ourselves reaching into the cabinet for cocoa, and sometimes, whiskey. I turned to our trusty Slack channel to ask the team if anyone had a favorite recipe to stay cozy. The responses made me want to set my status as away (“chocolate break” seemed legit) and rush to the store in preparation for National Hot Cocoa Day. Here’s a guide to get you on a well deserved chocolate break, too.
Caramel Hot Chocolate
Mark recommends this decadent recipe that he made recently. It’s father-tested and family-approved.

Mexican Hot Chocolate
Elaine said we can’t forget about Mexican hot chocolate. Her pro-tip: make sure you aren’t using chili powder!

Hot Chocolate: Reloaded
Sean shared this classic recipe. “It makes a lot, but it’s really good.”

S’mores Cocktail
Reena asked if it has to be hot cocoa. She was definitely on the right track to warming up.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Michelle, Lynn and Crissy are all on a peppermint kick. Tip for adults: Add a little liquor to emphasize the pep in peppermint.

Want hot cocoa but not the work? We have some favorite dry mixes, too.
