5 Hot Chocolate Gift Recipes to Warm Hearts This Christmas

As Christmas approaches there's no better way to spread joy and cosiness than with a cup of rich, velvety hot chocolate. But why stop at a simple mug of cocoa when you can turn it into a delightful Christmas gift that warms hands and hearts? Here at GNAW Chocolate, we're thrilled to guide you through a winter wonderland of hot chocolate gifts and ideas, all designed to infuse the holiday season with warmth, love, and indulgence.

From delectable chocolatey creations to heart-warming packaging and festive twists on classic recipes, you’ll be sharing the love this holiday season, one cup of hot chocolate at a time. Whether you're looking for the perfect present for a loved one or craving a touch of comfort for yourself, this blog is your ultimate destination for all things hot chocolate this Christmas.

So, grab your cosiest blanket, slip into your comfiest socks, and let's embark on a journey through the sweet, velvety world of hot chocolate. Get ready to discover the most heart-warming and delicious ways to make hot chocolate special this holiday season.

Products Used In This Blog:

• Hot Chocolate Taste Adventure
• Christmas Santa & Snowman Chocolate Bombs
• Mixed Hot Chocolate Bomb Cracker Set
• Hot Chocolate Stirrers

Chai-Spiced Hot Chocolate

Upgrade your hot chocolate experience by infusing it with the enchanting and aromatic flavours of chai. This captivating blend of spices (which include cinnamon, cardamom, and a hint of black pepper) will transport your taste buds to a world of warmth and depth that is perfect for escaping the cold during the winter months.

Here's what you’ll need to create this tantalising Chai-Spiced Hot Chocolate:

Ingredients:

• 1 mug of milk (~200ml depending on your mug)
• 1 GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer (We recommend Milk or Dark for this recipe)
• 1 chai tea bag
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat your choice of milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Place the chai teabag in the milk and let it steep for about 5-7 minutes.
2. After the tea has steeped, remove the chai tea bag and discard it.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients ( ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, and a pinch of black pepper) Mix these dry ingredients well.
4. Gradually whisk the dry ingredient mixture into the infused milk. Continue to whisk until the cocoa or chocolate fully dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.
5. Get your GNAW Chocolate Stirrer and melt the entire block into the hot milk. 
6. If you prefer your hot chocolate on the sweeter side, add sugar to taste.
7. Pour the mixture into your favourite mug!

For an extra touch of indulgence, top your hot chocolate with a dollop of whipped cream. You can even garnish it with a cinnamon stick to add a visual and aromatic flourish. Sip and enjoy!

Extra-Minty Peppermint-Infused Hot Chocolate

Indulge in delightfully bright Peppermint-Infused Hot Chocolate. A winter treat that combines the timeless charm of hot chocolate with the coolness of mint. This refreshing beverage is perfect for those who appreciate the classic pairing of chocolate and peppermint. Here's how to create this luscious and minty masterpiece:

Ingredients:

• 1 mug of milk (~200ml depending on your mug)
• 1 GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer (We recommend our Dark Mint or Vegan Dark Mint Stirrer for this recipe)
• 1/4 cup of peppermint candy canes or sweets, crushed up finely. (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat your choice of milk in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes
2. In a separate bowl, crush up the peppermint candy canes / sweets. Make sure they’re crushed up finely.
3. Get your GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer and melt the entire block into the milk until fully dissolved.
4. Gradually whisk the crushed up mint sweets until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined. 
5. If you prefer hot chocolate to be on the sweeter side, add sugar to taste.
6. Pour the mixture into your favourite mug
7. Top with GNAW marshmallows

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate is not just a beverage; it's Winter Wonderland in a mug! Offering the perfect balance of comforting warmth and invigorating coolness. Whether you're enjoying it by a crackling fire or as a cosy treat during the holiday season, this minty masterpiece will undoubtedly bring joy to your palate.

Enjoy this classic with a cool twist!

Coconut and Almond Hot Chocolate

Embrace this delightful tropical twist in your hot chocolate. By introducing creamy coconut milk and a hint of almond extract, you're about to embark on a refreshing journey of flavours you never thought you wanted in a Hot Chocolate.

Ingredients:

• 1 mug of milk (~200ml depending on your mug)

• 1 GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer
• 1/2 cup of coconut milk
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
• Desiccated coconut and almond flakes (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat your choice of milk in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes
2. While the milk is heating, combine the coconut milk, and almond extract in a separate bowl.
3. Gradually mix your GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer into the hot milk until fully dissolved. 
4. Add the coconut milk and almond extract mixture into the saucepan. Stir for a minute or so.
5. If you prefer your hot chocolate on the sweeter side, add sugar to taste, stirring until it's fully incorporated.
6. Top with GNAW marshmallows
7. Garnish with Almond Flakes and Shredded Coconut flakes
8. Sip and enjoy!

This tropical-infused hot chocolate is a mini-holiday for your taste buds. Whether you're sipping it to escape the winter chill or as a special treat during the holiday season, this creation will make you feel like you're basking in the sunshine on a tropical island!

The Perfect Orange & Nutmeg Christmas Hot Chocolate Bomb

Give your hot chocolate a burst of citrusy brightness and a warm, earthy allure with nutmeg this Christmas. By grating fresh orange zest and nutmeg into your hot chocolate, you're about to experience Christmas in a cup. The combination of chocolate and orange, a timeless classic, awaits you with each delightful sip.

Ingredients:

• 1 mug of milk (~200ml depending on your mug)

• 1 GNAW Hot Chocolate Bomb, we used our Sweet Orange Hot Choc Bomb in this recipe!
• Fresh zest from one orange
• Max. 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (No more - Nutmeg in high quantities can be dangerous)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
• Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat your choice of milk in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes
2. Gradually mix your GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer into the hot milk until fully dissolved. 
3. Zest your orange into the milk, tasting as you do so.
4. Add the ¼ tablespoon of nutmeg (no more)
5. If you prefer your hot chocolate on the sweeter side, add sugar to taste, stirring until it's fully incorporated.
6. Top with GNAW marshmallows
7. Garnish with more orange zest and nutmeg
8. Sip and enjoy!

This Orange Zest and Nutmeg Hot Chocolate is a testament to the magic of classic flavour pairings. Whether you're seeking a comforting cup on a chilly day or a special treat during the festive season, this creation will transport you to a world of timeless elegance and culinary delight with each sip.

Spiced Rum or Irish Cream Boozy Hot Chocolate

Give your hot chocolate a touch of grown-up indulgence by adding a shot of spiced rum or Irish cream. This delightful adult twist will not only warm you from the inside out but also infuse your hot chocolate with a delightful boozy kick, making it the perfect treat for a cosy evening by the fireplace. Here's how to create this luxurious Spiced Rum or Irish Cream Hot Chocolate:

Ingredients:

• 1 mug of milk (~200ml depending on your mug)

• 1 GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer - Or simply try our Boozy Infused Hot Choc Shots!
• 1 Shot of Spiced Rum or Irish Cream
• 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
• Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat your choice of milk in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes
2. Gradually mix your GNAW Hot Chocolate Stirrer into the hot milk until fully dissolved. 
3. If you prefer your hot chocolate on the sweeter side, add sugar to taste, stirring until it's fully incorporated.
4. Add your shot of Spiced Rum or Irish Cream after tasting sweetness
5. Top with GNAW marshmallows
6. Garnish with some whipped cream
7. Sip and enjoy!

This Spiced Rum or Irish Cream Hot Chocolate is an experience for the senses. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or sharing a cosy moment with loved ones, this adult twist on classic hot chocolate will add a touch of sophistication to your winter evenings and provide that delightful, warming sensation you've been craving. Enjoy in moderation, and toast to the joy of the season!

Conclusion:

Remember, feel free to experiment and let your imagination run wild. Hot chocolate is a canvas waiting to be moulded with friends and family this Christmas. Make some quality memories with loved ones by giving the gift of hot chocolate and making some of our amazing recipes with them!

In the world of hot chocolate, there’s no shortage of ways to transform a simple cup of cocoa into a decadent and delightful experience. We've journeyed through an array of hot chocolate recipes, each a testament to the creativity and versatility of the classic winter drink. 

From the comforting allure of Chai-Spiced Hot Chocolate to the freshness of Peppermint Hot Chocolate. We've explored the different ways you can elevate your hot chocolate game Christmas. We've even taken a step back in time with our timeless favourite combination of Orange Zest and Nutmeg.

So what are you waiting for? Grab yourself some hot chocolate stirrers or bombs to give to your loved ones and prepare to have a nostalgic Christmas you’ll be sure to remember for years to come. Make hot chocolate a tradition if it isn’t already.

Enjoy,

-GNAW.