Move over Swiss Miss

Sure we all grew up on the large containers and small packets of the chalky brown powder that claimed to make hot coco. If you were lucky you might get the deluxe packet with the dehydrated marshmallows!! Hot Coco is something that needs to be revered and cherished far more than cracking open a can or ripping open a packet of powder. When you and your kids make the commitment to face the elements, which for some is far less harsh than others, you should be rewarded with a special treat that warms your insides and brings pleasure to your palate. Making true hot coco is simple and can be fun for you and your kids. It also brings far more enjoyment than the powdery solutions that you are used to.



I like to set all of my ingredients out so that I am ready to rock when it comes time to add each ingredient. You start with the sugar, coco, salt, and some water in a sauce pan on medium heat. If you want to get the kids involved they can certainly be whisking this mixture for you while you get the cups and marshmallows out of the cupboard. Once your coco syrup begins to boil you boil it for about two minutes whisking continually. After the two minutes you simply dump in your milk and vanilla, while continuing to stir, of course. Leave the sauce pan over medium heat and whisk occasionally until your coco has reached the temperature that you are looking for.



I personally like to add the mallows to each cup so that everyone can have their own and you do not have to fish for any in the pan. This weekend I ran into a minor problem though, I did not have any mini-mallows for the coco. Solution, whipped cream. Whipped cream is a great staple to keep in your fridge for moments like this. Now I am not talking about anything that comes in a can or that was previously frozen. I am talking heavy whipping cream that you can easily whip into stiff peaks with a little sugar and vanilla for blissful topping of countless foods and beverages. The whip cream melts onto the coco creating this magical froth of lucious goodness. You really cannot get enough. I personally like to add a little coffee to my coco so that I have a makeshift mocha that gives me a little pick me up. Often times being outside can really drain the energy stores. I know that winter is almost over, but making coco is something that can be great in the Spring to when you are out grilling on chilly evening. You do not have to keep settling for the can of powder or the overpriced mochas from your local coffee shop. You can make gourmet coco at home and impress those kids one more time!! The great thing about coco too is that you can add little candy treats to it if you want to break out of the norm. Andes mints make for a mean mint coco and melt very easily in your hot mix.