Save A whimsical and cozy assortment of hot chocolates served with playful polar bear-inspired toppings and treats—perfect for winter gatherings or a festive dessert board.
This platter was a hit with my family during the holidays, creating fun and warmth all around.
Ingredients
- Hot Chocolate Base: 1 liter whole milk, 200 g semi-sweet chocolate chopped, 100 g white chocolate chopped, 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- Polar Bear Toppings & Treats: 200 ml heavy cream whipped, 12 large marshmallows, 12 mini marshmallows, 36 mini chocolate chips, 12 white chocolate buttons or candy melts, 50 g shredded coconut, 6 sugar cookies (bear paw or round shapes optional), 6 peppermint sticks or candy canes, Sprinkles or edible pearls (white silver or blue)
Instructions
- Prepare the hot chocolate base:
- In a saucepan over medium heat combine the milk semi-sweet chocolate white chocolate cocoa powder sugar and salt. Whisk continuously until the chocolates are melted and the mixture is smooth and steaming (do not boil). Stir in the vanilla extract. Keep warm over low heat.
- Make polar bear marshmallow toppers:
- For each bear use one large marshmallow as the head. Attach two mini marshmallows as ears using a dab of whipped cream or melted white chocolate. Add two mini chocolate chips as eyes and one white chocolate button with a mini chocolate chip as the nose. (Use a toothpick or melted chocolate for glue.)
- Whip the cream:
- Whip the cream to soft peaks and set aside.
- To serve:
- Pour hot chocolate into mugs. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream then carefully place a polar bear marshmallow topper on each mug.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut around the polar bear for a snowy effect. Add sprinkles or edible pearls for decoration.
- Serve on a platter:
- Serve on a platter with cookies and peppermint sticks or candy canes on the side for dipping and stirring.
Save Enjoying this platter has become a cherished family tradition, bringing smiles to all ages.
Notes
Use plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version. Swap cookies for brownies biscotti or gingerbread. Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a spiced variation. Pair with a sweet dessert wine or rich black tea.
Required Tools
Saucepan, Whisk, Mixing bowl, Electric mixer (for whipped cream), Serving platter, Mugs
Allergen Information
Contains milk soy (chocolate) and gluten (cookies). Marshmallows may contain gelatin.
Save This delightful platter offers both fun and flavor for any festive occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What types of chocolate are used in this hot chocolate?
The base combines semi-sweet and white chocolate along with cocoa powder for a layered, creamy flavor.
- → How are the polar bear toppers created?
Large marshmallows form the heads, mini marshmallows serve as ears, with mini chocolate chips for eyes and white chocolate buttons for noses, assembled using whipped cream or melted chocolate.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version without compromising flavor or texture.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Shredded coconut simulates snow, while edible pearls and sprinkles add a festive shimmer around the polar bears.
- → What treats accompany the hot chocolate on the platter?
Cookies shaped like bear paws and peppermint sticks or candy canes are served alongside for dipping and stirring.