Description
A festive and cozy hot chocolate charcuterie board inspired by Mediterranean holiday flavors, perfect for sharing and celebrating with friends and family during chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (950 ml) whole milk
- 8 oz (225 g) good-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Honey to taste
- Assorted nuts (roasted almonds, pistachios, walnuts, unsalted)
- Dried fruits (figs, apricots, dates)
- Biscotti or almond cookies
- Fresh fruit (pomegranate seeds, orange slices)
- Cheeses (small wedge of aged Manchego or soft goat cheese)
- Marshmallows or Turkish delight
- Dark chocolate chunks or truffles
- Sea salt flakes
- Fresh mint leaves or rosemary sprigs
- Mini spoons and stirrers
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients (10 minutes): Arrange nuts, dried fruits, fresh fruit, cheeses, and sweets on your serving board. Use small bowls for sticky or loose items like honey and marshmallows. Have mini spoons and napkins ready.
- Make the hot chocolate (15 minutes): In a medium saucepan, gently heat 4 cups (950 ml) of whole milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t scorch.
- Add chocolate and spices (5 minutes): Lower the heat and add 8 oz (225 g) chopped dark chocolate, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Whisk continuously until chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Sweeten with honey to taste.
- Serve hot chocolate warm: Pour the hot chocolate into a pretty pot or individual mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or fresh mint if desired.
- Invite everyone to dig in: Encourage guests to dip biscotti, nibble nuts, and mix and match flavors with the hot chocolate.
Notes
Warm your serving board in a low oven for 5 minutes before plating to keep hot chocolate warm longer. Use whole milk or a creamy alternative for best results. Don’t skip the cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Prep all board components before heating the chocolate to avoid stress. Whisk continuously to prevent grainy texture. Toast biscotti lightly before serving to enhance flavor. Leftover hot chocolate can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Beverage / Snack
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml) hot c
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Protein: 6
Keywords: hot chocolate, charcuterie board, Mediterranean, holiday, cozy, nuts, dried fruits, biscotti, festive, warm drink