When the chill of the season sets in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of something warm and comforting. This Almond Joy Hot Chocolate is a delightful twist on the classic winter beverage, bringing together rich cocoa, creamy coconut, and a hint of almond for a cozy treat that feels like a hug in a cup.
The base of this drink is coconut milk, which adds a creamy texture and a subtle tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate. The unsweetened cocoa powder is what brings the rich, chocolatey goodness to the forefront. Add sugar to balance out the cocoa’s bitterness and a pinch of salt to enhance all the flavors. The almond extract gives it that distinctive nutty aroma, while a hint of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors. Topping it off, whipped heavy cream adds a luscious finish, and toasted coconut flakes and sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch.
Pair your Almond Joy Hot Chocolate with a plate of shortbread cookies for a delightful treat. It’s also perfect alongside a slice of almond or coconut cake. If you’re feeling festive, serve it with a side of candied almonds for extra crunch.
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Pour in the coconut milk, and then whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk continuously over medium heat, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture becomes smooth and steamy. This should take about five minutes, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over.
Once it’s heated through, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the almond extract and vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens, as the extracts will infuse your hot chocolate with those lovely aromas. Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs, filling them up to about three-quarters full to leave room for toppings.
Now, for the fun part: toppings! Add a generous dollop of whipped heavy cream to each mug. Then, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes and sliced almonds for that signature Almond Joy experience. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot.
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