Pin 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 the highlight of our last holiday party and brought smiles to everyone's faces.
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.
- Decorate:
- Sprinkle shredded coconut around the polar bear for a snowy effect. Add sprinkles or edible pearls for decoration.
- Serve:
- Serve on a platter with cookies and peppermint sticks or candy canes on the side for dipping and stirring.
Pin This recipe created warm memories as we gathered around the platter sharing stories and treats.
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 Always check labels for allergens and cross-contamination
Pin Enjoy this fun and festive dessert with friends and family for a truly memorable winter treat.
Recipe Questions
- → What types of chocolate work best for the base?
A combination of semi-sweet and white chocolate creates a balanced, creamy base with rich flavor and sweetness.
- → How are the polar bear marshmallow toppers made?
Large marshmallows form the head, with mini marshmallows as ears, chocolate chips for eyes, and white chocolate buttons as noses, attached using whipped cream or melted chocolate.
- → Can I make this platter dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream to create a dairy-free version while maintaining creamy texture.
- → What toppings complement the polar bear design?
Shredded coconut adds a snowy effect, while sprinkles or edible pearls enhance the festive look. Cookies and peppermint sticks provide tasty sides.
- → How should the hot chocolate be served?
Serve warm in mugs topped with whipped cream and the polar bear marshmallow toppers, making for a cozy presentation.
- → Are there any recommended flavor variations?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder introduces a warming, spiced twist to the chocolate base.