Aged Chocolate Cherry Eggnog
Originally published in Edible Alaska no. 34, Winter 2024
Wait! Before you grab that carton of pre-made nog, consider the alternative. This holiday season, wow your guests with your own homemade ve...
A spoonful of your favorite summer jam makes for a rich hot cocoa with a dose of seasonal nostalgia. The blueberry goodness is a cozy taste of summer berry picking and sunshine to come… eventually! Make this lightly sweetened, special edition, “solo cup” hot cocoa with the first or final bit of jam you’ve been enjoying—whether it’s from family, friends, the farmers market, or that trusty Bonne Maman from Costco. Add an optional quick pour of vodka or brandy to get even toastier.
Ingredients
SERVINGS: Makes 1 serving, easily doubled or tripled
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon blueberry jam or jelly
- 2 teaspoons sugar, more or less to your taste
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- Toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, and sifted cocoa powder
Preparation
Add the milk, cocoa powder, blueberry jam, and sugar to a small saucepan over medium heat, steadily using a whisk to bring the mixture together until it’s just about to boil and gets warm and frothy. Remove from heat, whisk in the vanilla and pinch of salt, and carefully transfer to your favorite large holiday mug (no matter the month). Top with whipped cream, a sifted dust of cocoa powder, and marshmallows, as desired. Enjoy immediately.
Hot Cocoa Hot Tips
Want to impress some guests or achieve some mildly indulgent self-care? Fold a teaspoon or two of jam or jelly into your whipped cream and add a dollop or two on top of your cocoa with glee.
Not quite time for bed? Add a shot of espresso for a Jam Jar Hot Cocoa Mocha!
For the 21+, go ahead and pour in a shot of vodka or brandy for a little extra indulgence, so to speak.
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