How to Create a Casual Hot Cocoa Bar
Growing up, my mom's version of a hot cocoa bar was a half open bag of stale marshmallows on the kitchen counter! So taking on the goal of how to create a hot cocoa bar, was unchartered territory for me. But, on my goals for this winter was to create a Colorado casual hot cocoa bar before the snow ramps up all along the Rockies.
The first thing you need to know about my hot beverage bar was I kind of cheated. Okay, cheated might be a strong word. I did not pay someone to write my post and I did not insert marshmallow images into my take away cups.
Instead, I ordered a hot cocoa bar starter set. Yes, that is a thing! But, when I finally got around to opening the package I was a little disappointed. So in the end I I did not cheat.
Steps to Create a Hot Cocoa Bar
There are no rules to any beverage bar.
I adapted mine to fit my counter space and family.
I began with my tiered tray from my favorite online store. I layered the base of the top level with marshmallows to set the mood.
Casual, like grab a few marshmallows at your leisure.
I loved the tray because it contains the ingredients and mugs/take away cups. And, a tiered tray is like a condo development; it is all about the vertical space on a counter!
Keeping with my Colorado casual hot cocoa bar I opted for the Nestle pre-made hot cocoa packets. I had big plans, but I caved in aisle 9 when I saw how easy it was to toss 2 boxes into my cart.
I found the bulk of my hot cocoa bar goodies at Sprouts and Trader Joe's.
For the second tier, I added the candy cane sticks, yogurt pretzels and these chocolate dipped marshmallows. My kids and husband will love this twist on marshmallows.
The candy canes look adorable along the edge of the tiered trays. And, they make a great grab & go when we want an old school candy cane.
And, finally I switched out my Christmas ceramic mugs for these take away cups. I found them at Costco like two weeks ago back in the paper goods section.
And, with the holidays filled with errands, baking and parties, the family will appreciate the grab & go hot cocoa (and skip the $4.65 in the drive thru window). Enjoy! Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas!
Frequently asked questions
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