When it came time to announcing the engagement of our daughter, her sisters and I decided we needed give her a bridal shower… a hot cocoa bar seemed to be perfect for the occasion. In planning such a party, I would suggest limiting the amount of sugar in your cocoa… as the ad- ins are all quite sweet. Here’s a yummy recipe for homemade cocoa from Martha Stewart.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 1/4 cups cocoa
- 1 tablespoon table salt
- Whole milk for serving
- In a large bowl, combine sugar, cocoa, and salt, and whisk to combine well. Store the mixture in an airtight container.
- For individual servings, pour 1 cup whole milk into a microwave-safe mug, and microwave on high just until hot. Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa mix, and stir to dissolve. For a larger batch of cocoa, warm the milk in a saucepan set over medium-low heat, taking care not to let the milk boil; as it warms, stir in 2 tablespoons of mix for each cup of milk.
We had fun preparing for our shower with manis and pedis! Of course our daughter, Kelli, enjoyed opening all her fun gifts.
Preparation is key in planning a shower or party. Make a list of everything you will need. We used syrup jars for the three flavors of Torani and matching glass shakers for the cinnamon (who doesn’t like a bit cinnamon in their hot cocoa?) and chocolate sprinkles. We also used tempered glass cups for the hot cocoa and white spoons that could be dipped in melted white chocolate for stirring. All of the glass products and spoons were found at Bed Bath & Beyond.
Make certain that the white chocolate used for melting is a product made for this purpose, such as the Wilton brand. Health bits, caramel bits and mint flavored marshmallows are also good choices for a hot chocolate bar.
We used clear rock candy stirring sticks as well as Biscotti. The greater the choice for add-ins, the more enjoyable it is for your guests.
We had an assortment of macarons as well sweet breads on our buffet.
Labeling each item with a simple white on black card stock worked well and kept the theme simple yet elegant.
Whether you are planning a bridal or baby shower or any fall/winter gathering, a hot cocoa bar is easy to do and enjoyed by all! Have you ever had a hot cocoa bar? How did it turn out? I’d love to hear back!
Disclaimer: Several of these photos were taken by my daughter, a wonderful photographer. You can find her at Kelli LeBaron Photography. Thanks Kelli!
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