It’s December and even if you live in more temperate climates, it still feels like the perfect time to indulge in a cup of hot cocoa. Maybe that’s why someone, somewhere designated December 13th as National Cocoa Day. The fun thing about cocoa is how versatile it is. There are so many ways to make it from simple to extravagant.

The Cocoa Basics

One great thing about cocoa is you can make it with water or milk, especially if you use cocoa mixes from the store. Heat, stir, and serve — easy peasy! The variety of mixes available are endless, everything from flavored cocoa to marshmallows in the mix.

If you want to make your own from scratch, they are plenty of recipes out there though the easiest, never fails, original Hershey’s Hot Cocoa makes a delicious cup of bliss. And that simple recipe is the perfect base for jazzing up your cocoa.

Flavor it Up

Did you know there are other flavor extracts, not just vanilla? Well, of course you did but we don’t always think to use them outside of the recipe pages. Almond, peppermint, and orange are all great choices for adding some flavor to your cocoa. Cinnamon adds a fun kick and is especially festive around the holidays. Now go back to the spice rack. Are you a hot & spicy kind of girl? A few shakes of that red, Cheyenne pepper will add a new dimension to your hot cocoa.

Another great way to enhance flavor is with mix-ins. For a fruity cocoa try Hershey’s Cherry Cordial Kisses (available around Christmas & Valentine’s Day), chocolate orange candy wedges, or stir in a spoonful of raspberry or strawberry jam. For a nutty cocoa try peanut butter chips or a spoonful of Nutella. For a minty cocoa stir in some Andes mints or York peppermint patties or candy cane pieces. For a creamier cocoa, stir in your favorite flavored coffee creamer or add a scoop of ice cream.

If you’re needing an adult beverage, liqueurs can take your cocoa from mild to wild (but please, drink responsibly). Favorites include: Kahlua, Bailey’s Irish Creme, Frangelico, Peppermint Schnapps, Chambord, Grand Marnier, and coffee liqueurs.

The Topping Wars

The final bit of yumminess that you can do for your mug of cocoa is often a matter of great debate: marshmallows vs. whipped cream. There are people who definitely fall to one side or the other and both have their merits. Here’s an idea, go a little crazy and do both! Place a ring of marshmallows around the rim of the mug and then fill in the rest with whipped cream. It’s the best of both worlds!

So, how do you cocoa? Leave your favorite cocoa tips in the comments.

photo credits from Flickr Creative Commons: Kevin Marsh, Kathy – rittyrats, Gail – thepinkpeppercorn