By Rachel King //
Nothing says winter season like hot chocolate, and a cold month like February is all the more reason to warm up with a sip of something sweet. Add a few marshmallows, top it off with whipped cream, and take a warm comforting sip of goodness. As is attested here, there’s no denying hot chocolate is a crowd favorite in its purest form. However, venture out of the box and try something new this year with one of these 12 spins on tradition. With so many options, you’re sure to find something you like.
- Salted Caramel
Salted caramel is one of the most basic flavors on this list, but it’s basic for a reason. The salt cuts the taste of sugar, making the sugary ingredients not taste overly sweet, but just right. Easily mix in some caramel sauce with a sprinkle of sea salt for a restaurant-worthy drink.
- Marshmallow Fluff
Marshmallows are great and all, but have you ever tried marshmallow fluff? For one, it doesn’t require any chewing, and its spreadable quality makes it the perfect hot chocolate topping. Simply plop a heaping spoonful of marshmallow fluff on top of your drink. If you’re super extra and you own a blowtorch for some reason, torch the fluff to give it a nice golden brown color and add even more flavor to your beverage.
- Peanut Butter
Peanut butter makes everything better, so why not add it to your hot chocolate? Just add as much peanut butter as you desire to your hot chocolate and viola! You have Reese’s in a cup. Who wouldn’t want to try that?
- Peppermint
To add a festive touch to your hot chocolate, opt for a peppermint mix-in. Even when it’s not Christmas, with this drink, you’ll sure feel like it is.
- Candy Bar
This variation is the most versatile because it involves adding in whatever candy bar suits your fancy. Whether it’s Snickers, Kit-Kat, Crunch, or a combination of all three, your sweet tooth will be more than satisfied with your decision.
- Hazelnut
For all you Nutella fans, you’re going to want to listen up for this one. For the hot chocolate you’ve been waiting for, it’s really as simple as swirling a dollop of Nutella into your mug, sitting back, and cherishing the delectable nutty taste. You’re welcome.
- Cinnamon
Throw in a dash of cinnamon to your hot beverage — or more if you’re feeling daring — for some Mexican hot chocolate vibes. This is perfect for anyone craving a bit of a kick to counteract the sugary taste of the chocolate.
- Pumpkin Spice
October may have passed, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop sipping your pumpkin-flavored beverages. Pumpkin-ify your hot chocolate with some pumpkin spice seasoning. You can also experiment by sprinkling in some nutmeg if you’re trying to go the extra fall mile. Forget pumpkin spice lattes — it’s all about the pumpkin spice hot chocolate.
- Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
When it comes to mixing alcohol into your hot chocolate, Fireball may not be your first choice. But you’d be surprised how harmonious this combination can actually be. Don’t knock it ‘till you try it!
- Baileys Irish Cream
Another alcoholic beverage that pairs well with hot chocolate is Baileys — no surprise there. But be warned: This combination is so delicious that once you start whipping up this variation, you likely won’t be able to stop.
- Rum
If you’re looking for a drink where you can taste the liquor but it’s slightly offset by the hot chocolate base, this is the variation for you. Grab any type of rum from your alcohol stash or the store and get cooking! You’ll want to start drinking it as soon as possible.
- Kahlua
This beverage is a coffee lover’s dream come true. Gone are the days when you can only experience the taste of coffee in the morning. With this Kahlua hot chocolate, savor the coffee flavor profile in all its glory whenever you want. It is exactly what you didn’t know you needed.
The Spread 