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We know you love pumpkin spice lattes and other warm winter drinks, but get ready to spruce up the most classic of them all: hot chocolate! With the holiday season quickly approaching, time might feel like it's simply going *too* fast, but it will definitely slow back down when there's a comforting mug of hot chocolate in your hands.
These hot chocolate recipes range from simple and healthy to sweet and boozy, so there's something for every taste. Wear your favorite slippers, sit back, and relax. Here's to drinking hot chocolate for breakfast and topping it with far too many marshmallows.
Check out our best hot chocolate recipes below!
Vegan Slow-Cooker Hot Cocoa
Brit + Co
If you're hosting a party, serve up the goods in a slow cooker, so guests can serve themselves. Don't forget plenty of toppings! (via Brit + Co)
Jaques Torres Hot Chocolate
Brit + Co
Start with a classic. This version is extra-rich due to the use of high-quality chocolate coins. (via Brit + Co)
Mulled Wine Hot Chocolate
Brit + Co
This boozy libation packs all of the flavors of the holidays, from star anise to cranberries, in one warm, chocolatey cup. (via Brit + Co)
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
A Zesty Bite
There’s no better way to add a refreshing zing to hot chocolate than with peppermint patties. A candy cane stirrer makes it fit for a queen. (via A Zesty Bite)
Boozy Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate
Minimalist Baker
You don't have to add Kahlua or bourbon to this already decadent hot chocolate, but it is a good idea. (via Minimalist Baker)
Salted Vanilla Hot Chocolate
Love & Olive Oil
Sweet vanilla powder and an unexpected touch of salt unite for a hot chocolate that stands out. (via Love & Olive Oil)
Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate
Hello Glow
We all knew chocolate could mend a broken heart, but this healthy beverage can heal a headache; it uses magnesium-rich ingredients to soothe tension. (via Hello Glow)
Low-Carb Hot Chocolate
Savory Tooth
Unsweetened cocoa powder and low-carb sweetener transform this splendidly creamy hot chocolate into a keto-friendly beverage. (via Savory Tooth)
Unicorn Hot Chocolate
Love & Olive Oil
If wintry weather has you down, this pink-as-can-be, sprinkle-covered white hot chocolate will cheer you up in no time. (via Love & Olive Oil)
Vegan Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Domestic Gothess
Plenty of dairy-free beverages claim to be creamy, but thanks to ground cashews, this vegan hot chocolate really is luscious. Spice it up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for an even more soothing sipper. (via Domestic Gothess)
Hot Chocolate Spoons
Fork and Beans
Finally, something exciting to put in an ice-cube tray: chocolate and marshmallows. You'll have fun working for your hot chocolate by swirling these spoons into warm milk. (via Fork and Beans)
Italian Hot Chocolate
Inside the Rustic Kitchen
Pretend you're in an Italian cafe as you sip on this luxurious cioccolata calda, made with chopped dark chocolate. (via Inside the Rustic Kitchen)
Slow-Cooker Mint Hot Chocolate
The Magical Slow Cooker
Slowly steeping mint in hot chocolate makes its bright flavor come through. (via The Magical Slow Cooker)
Pumpkin Coconut Hot Chocolate
How Sweet Eats
Coconut milk is the base of this vegan hot chocolate, which gets a unique twist from homemade pumpkin syrup. (via How Sweet Eats)
Earl Grey Hot Chocolate
Port and Fin
Can't decide between tea and hot chocolate? With this beverage, you don't have to. (via Port and Fin)
Matcha Honey Hot Chocolate
How Sweet Eats
Matcha adds a healthy — and photogenic — touch to this white-chocolate-based drink. (via How Sweet Eats)
Spiked Orange Hot Cocoa
Salt & Lavender
Thanks to Grand Marnier, this deeply flavorful hot chocolate burns in the best way. (via Salt & Lavender)
Mexican Hot Chocolate
Delish Knowledge
Cayenne and cinnamon are the keys to cocoa with a kick. (via Delish Knowledge)
Stovetop Cinnamon Cocoa
Jelly Toast
Ground cinnamon is a reliable, easy way to amp up your hot chocolate without going to the grocery store for a special ingredient. (via Jelly Toast)
Red Wine Hot Chocolate
Paper & Stitch
Just when you thought hot chocolate couldn't be more relaxing, here's one with a big splash of red wine, which acts as a natural sweetener. (via Paper & Stitch)
What's your favorite hot chocolate recipe? Let us know on Instagram!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Kate Puhala.
