Nothing says cosy more than enjoying a big mug of hot chocolate in front of the fireplace.
Share the joy of chocolate with family and friends with an adorable hot cocoa bar.
To help you get started, I've pulled together some ideas for the perfect winter night activity!
How to Set Up a Hot Cocoa Bar
Planning a fun night filled with friends, family, and delicious hot chocolate?
Transform your home into a cosy, winter wonderland with these DIY hot cocoa bar ideas.
Depending on the weather where you are in December, you can set up the bar inside or outside.
If you decide to set it up inside, make sure you have lots of space to accommodate many people at one time.
A partly enclosed porch works well for this activity because there is enough room for a table and chairs, but it's still protected from the elements.
If you decide to set up your Hot Cocoa Bar outside, make sure to have a large enough space that is close to where people will be coming in from so they can warm up after being outside in the cold.
Setting up a hot chocolate area on the porch or inside and using a firepit with warm blankets is a great way to keep everyone cosy!
There are so many delicious possible additions for your hot cocoa bar!
Scroll down for some hot chocolate recipe ideas, featuring everything from chilli to Nutella.
Possible Add-ins for hot cocoa include:
- caramel sauce
- chocolate chips
- peppermints
Possible toppings for hot cocoa include:
- chopped nuts
- cookie bits
- gingerbread men
Let your friends and family know what is available with our cute hot cocoa bar sign.
Hot Cocoa Bar Sign
This Hot Cocoa Bar sign is simple and easy to make and can be displayed near your bar.
This hot cocoa bar printable sign is great to not only let your guests know what is available for add-ins and toppings but it'll give you a checklist for ideas of the type of candy and mix-ins you'll need.
Hot Cocoa Bar Accessories
Now that you have decided where to set up your drinks, it's time to plan what type of hot cocoa bar accessories you'll need.
Here are some essentials you will need for a successful hot cocoa bar:
- A table or countertop for the bar area
- Spoons for stirring hot chocolate
- Decorative bowls, cups, or mason jars for the toppings
- Plates for any treats or snacks you want to serve
- A chalkboard sign to bunting to show where the hot cocoa bar is
- Print out our hot cocoa bar printable (above) and put it in a cute frame
- Holiday or winter decorations to dress up the area
- Napkins
- A well-placed trash can
Hot Cocoa Bar Menu Ideas
There are endless possibilities when it comes to creating a delicious menu for your hot cocoa bar.
Here are some of my favourites:
Classic Hot Cocoa
This one is a no-brainer and always a hit with guests of all ages.
Make it even more special by adding whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Mexican Hot Cocoa
Add a little spice to your life with this delicious variation that includes cinnamon and chilli powder.
Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa
This one is for the guests with a sweet tooth out there.
Be sure to add some salty toppings like pretzels or caramel popcorn to balance out the sweetness.
Nutella Hot Cocoa
If you're looking for a decadent drink, Nutella hot cocoa is the way to go.
Add some chocolate chips and marshmallows to take it over the top.
Peppermint Hot Cocoa
For a festive twist, add peppermint extract or candy canes to your cup of cocoa.
Eggnog Hot Cocoa
Holiday-inspired drinks are always fun.
Prepare your eggnog early in the season and set out some cups on the bar for guests to pour themselves.
The sky's the limit as far as planning your hot cocoa bar menu goes.
Get creative and have fun with it. Enjoy your hot chocolate and stay warm!
Pin it:
This post contains product and service links for your convenience. By clicking on these links I may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I only suggest resources and items I believe in and highly recommend. Find out more on our Disclosure page.