What to Eat with Hot Chocolate? Here's Our Ultimate Guide

As the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. This rich, comforting cocoa beverage is a winter staple in many households, often evoking fond memories of warmth and relaxation. But what elevates this experience are the delicious snacks that can accompany it.

What to Eat with Hot Chocolate? Here’s Our Ultimate Guide

From sweet treats for hot chocolate, like homemade cookies and baked goods with cocoa, to more creative pairings, like savory hot chocolate companions, there’s a whole world of flavor to explore. In this article, we’ll delve into the best hot chocolate pairings, offering ideas that range from traditional comfort snacking options to innovative and nutritious cocoa snack ideas, ensuring that your hot chocolate experience is as delightful as it is diverse.

Sweet Treats to Accompany Hot Chocolate

Sweet combinations make for a great pair! There is something really special about enjoying chocolate-covered pretzels while sipping on hot cocoa. It’s like an extra layer of indulgence. I am all about an extra decadent dessert hour. It’s one of my favorite things.

Classic Marshmallows
- Why They Pair Well: Marshmallows add a creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor that complements the rich chocolate.
- Variations: Try flavored marshmallows like peppermint or toasted coconut for a unique twist.
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Why They Pair Well: The semi-sweet chocolate chips and buttery dough contrast the smooth hot chocolate.
- Variations: Add nuts, oatmeal, or swap in dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Warm Brownies
- Why They Pair Well: The gooey, chocolatey goodness of brownies pairs excellently with the liquid cocoa, enhancing the chocolate experience.
- Variations: Include walnuts, caramel swirls, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added texture and taste.
Biscotti
- Why They Pair Well: The crunchy, slightly sweet biscotti provides a pleasing textural contrast to the creamy hot chocolate.
- Variations: Almond, chocolate-dipped, or lemon-flavored biscotti offer delightful flavor alternatives.
Cinnamon Rolls
- Why They Pair Well: The warm, spicy sweetness of cinnamon rolls complements the rich, velvety hot chocolate beautifully.
- Variations: Add orange zest to the icing, or infuse the dough with cardamom for a unique twist.
French Madeleines
- Why They Pair Well: These light, buttery sponge cakes are a subtle yet luxurious complement to the bold flavors of hot chocolate.
- Variations: Dip them in dark chocolate or lemon glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Churros
- Why They Pair Well: The crispy exterior and soft interior of churros, coated with cinnamon sugar, add a delightful crunch and sweetness to each sip.
- Variations: Serve with chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
Shortbread Cookies
- Why They Pair Well: The rich, buttery flavor of shortbread cookies balances the intensity of the hot chocolate.
- Variations: Try lavender or rosemary-infused shortbread for a floral note.
Fluffy Pancakes
- Why They Pair Well: Pancakes with syrup add a soft, sweet element that pairs wonderfully with hot chocolate.
- Variations: Incorporate blueberries or chocolate chips into the batter for added flavors.
Raspberry Tart
- Why They Pair Well: The tartness of raspberries in the tart provides a refreshing contrast to the deep chocolate notes.
- Variations: Experiment with different berries or add a layer of lemon curd for a zesty twist.

These sweet treats not only enhance the flavor of hot chocolate but also bring a variety of textures and complementary tastes to the table, making each hot chocolate experience unique and enjoyable.

Savory Snacks to Accompany Hot Chocolate

Savory snacks like salty food are always a fun way to enjoy your favorite hot chocolate recipe. You don’t always have to work on your sweet tooth. The hot cocoa mix will handle that part of your desire. Take this holiday season to the next level with salty snacks, and surprise your taste buds with one of these unique combinations.

Salted Pretzels
- Why They Pair Well: The saltiness of the pretzels provides a perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of the hot chocolate.
- Variations: Try pretzels with different seasonings like garlic, onion, or everything bagel spice for a unique twist.
Cheese Straws
- Why They Pair Well: The crisp texture and sharp cheese flavor complement the creamy, rich hot chocolate, offering a delightful contrast.
- Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan for varied flavors.
Spiced Nuts
- Why They Pair Well: The warmth of spices and the nuts’ crunch pair nicely with hot chocolate’s smoothness.
- Variations: Use a mix of nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts and season with cinnamon, cayenne, or rosemary.
Savory Scones
- Why They Pair Well: Scones with herbs and cheese offer a hearty and satisfying contrast to sweet hot chocolate.
- Variations: Add bacon bits, chives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Olives
- Why They Pair Well: The briny and tangy taste of olives cuts through the richness of hot chocolate, balancing the flavors.
- Variations: Experiment with different types of olives, such as Kalamata, green, or stuffed olives.
Toasted Baguette with Tapenade
- Why They Pair Well: The crunch of the toasted baguette and the savory depth of tapenade provide a delightful contrast to the creamy hot chocolate.
- Variations: Try different tapenades, like olive, sun-dried tomato, or artichoke.
Popcorn
- Why They Pair Well: Lightly salted or spiced popcorn offers a crunchy, savory snack that doesn’t overpower the hot chocolate.
- Variations: Season with Parmesan cheese, truffle oil, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Roasted Chickpeas
- Why They Pair Well: These crispy, protein-rich snacks bring a savory and slightly spicy element that complements the sweetness of hot chocolate.
- Variations: Flavor them with curry powder, garlic powder, or cumin for different taste profiles.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
- Why They Pair Well: The combination of sweet dates and salty bacon offers a complex flavor pairing with the richness of hot chocolate.
- Variations: Stuff the dates with almonds or blue cheese for added texture and taste.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Why They Pair Well: The buttery, crispy bread and melted cheese provide a comforting, hearty snack alongside hot chocolate.
- Variations: Use different cheeses like Gruyère, Brie, or Havarti, and add tomato or basil for a gourmet touch.

These savory snacks create an intriguing contrast with the sweet and creamy qualities of hot chocolate, making each sip and bite an enjoyable and unique culinary experience.

Healthy Options to Accompany Hot Chocolate

If you are looking to tone down the rich flavors of your hot cocoa bombs, you could go a bit lighter with the perfect complement of something fresh and airy. Consider these healthier alternatives to fill your side dish:

Fresh Fruit Skewers
- Why They Pair Well: The natural sweetness and juiciness of fruits like strawberries, bananas, and apples complement the richness of hot chocolate.
- Variations: Try dipping fruits in dark chocolate or drizzling with honey for extra flavor.
Greek Yogurt Parfait
- Why They Pair Well: The tartness and creamy texture of Greek yogurt balance the sweet and velvety hot chocolate.
- Variations: Layer with granola, nuts, and fresh berries for added texture and nutrients.
Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds
- Why They Pair Well: They provide a healthy dose of antioxidants and a satisfying crunch, pairing well with the creamy hot chocolate.
- Variations: Experiment with other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, or try dark chocolate-covered dried fruits.
Whole Grain Toast with Nut Butter
- Why They Pair Well: The hearty whole grains and rich nut butter offer a satisfying and healthy complement to hot chocolate.
- Variations: Top with banana slices, chia seeds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and health benefits.
Rice Cakes with Avocado Spread
- Why They Pair Well: The light, airy rice cakes and creamy avocado provide a healthy, savory balance to the sweetness of the hot chocolate.
- Variations: Add a squeeze of lemon, sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a few slices of tomato for added zest.
Homemade Trail Mix
- Why They Pair Well: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits offers a nutrient-rich snack that complements the indulgent hot chocolate.
- Variations: Include pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and coconut flakes for a diverse flavor profile.
Carrot and Celery Sticks with Hummus
- Why They Pair Well: The crunch and freshness of the vegetables contrast nicely with the smooth, warm hot chocolate.
- Variations: Try different hummus flavors like roasted red pepper, garlic, or spicy.
Oatmeal Cookies
- Why They Pair Well: Made with whole grains and less sugar, these cookies are a healthier sweet treat to enjoy with hot chocolate.
- Variations: Add raisins, nuts, or dark chocolate chips for extra taste and texture.
Kale Chips
- Why They Pair Well: Their crisp texture and earthy flavor offer a nutritious and satisfying contrast to the creamy hot chocolate.
- Variations: Season with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, or a dash of cayenne for added flavor.
Protein Bars
- Why They Pair Well: They provide a substantial, energy-boosting snack that pairs well with the comforting qualities of hot chocolate.
- Variations: Choose bars with different nuts, seeds, or natural sweeteners like honey or agave.

These healthy options not only complement the warmth and sweetness of hot chocolate but also provide nutritious benefits, making your hot chocolate indulgence both satisfying and health-conscious.

Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe

If you want to make your own steaming mug of hot chocolate but don’t know how to start, here’s a recipe to get you started. Showcase this drink at your next holiday party.

Ingredients:

2 cups of milk (whole milk for creaminess or a plant-based alternative for a vegan option)
2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to taste)
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Optional: whipped cream or marshmallows for topping

Instructions:

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture helps to evenly distribute the cocoa and sugar in the milk.
Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. It’s important to avoid boiling the milk as it can alter the flavor and texture.
Mix in Cocoa: Add the dry mixture to the warm milk. Whisk the mixture continuously over medium heat, ensuring that the cocoa and sugar fully dissolve into the milk. Keep whisking to avoid any lumps.
Add Vanilla Extract: Once the cocoa mixture is completely blended and the hot chocolate is steaming hot (but not boiling), remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a layer of flavor and aroma to the hot chocolate.
Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. If desired, top with whipped cream or marshmallows. For an extra touch of decadence, sprinkle a little cocoa powder or cinnamon on top of the whipped cream.
Customize (Optional): Feel free to customize your hot chocolate. You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version, a few drops of peppermint extract for a minty twist, or even a bit of espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of your homemade hot chocolate!

Tips:

For an extra-rich hot chocolate, you can substitute half of the milk with cream.
If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, you can use a combination of unsweetened cocoa powder and a piece of dark chocolate.
Always use good quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
If you’re serving this to guests, consider a hot chocolate bar with various toppings like cinnamon sticks, caramel sauce, and different types of marshmallows for a fun, interactive experience.

What to include on hot cocoa charcuterie boards

A hot cocoa charcuterie board is a delightful and interactive way to enjoy hot chocolate with various complementary toppings and sides. This time of year, it is a simple solution for a dessert hour. Here are some ideas on what to include as you display your design on the kitchen counter:

Beverages:

Hot Cocoa Mix: Offer a rich, quality hot cocoa mix or homemade hot chocolate.
Milk Options: Include regular, almond, soy, and coconut milk for various preferences.

Sweet Toppings:

Marshmallows: Offer a variety of marshmallows, including mini, flavored, and gourmet.
Whipped Cream: Provide a bowl of whipped cream for a creamy topping.
Chocolate Chips: Offer milk, dark, and white chocolate chips.
Candy Canes: Great for a peppermint twist, especially around the holidays.
Caramel Sauce: A bottle of caramel sauce for drizzling.
Cinnamon Sticks: For a spicy, aromatic flavor.
Sprinkles: Colorful sprinkles add fun and a bit of crunch.
Chocolate Syrup: A board staple.

Savory & Sweet Snacks:

Cookies: Include a variety of cookies like chocolate chip, gingerbread, or shortbread.
Pretzel: Both regular and chocolate-covered pretzels can offer a salty-sweet contrast. You could also supply pretzel sticks.
Almond Biscotti: Perfect for dipping in hot cocoa.
Wafers: Chocolate or vanilla wafers are a light, sweet snack.
Graham Crackers: Ideal for a bit of crunch and sweetness.
Fruit: Fresh fruits like strawberries or dried fruits like raisins or apricots.
Angel Food Cake: Dice them up into squares.
Bittersweet Chocolate: To offer a variation of flavor.
Cheesecake Bites: Such a showstopper.
Sour Citrus Fruit: A great combination for those who love tangy food.
Ice Cream: Make sure you have serving bowls on hand.
Red Velvet Cake: The color contrast will make your board really stand out.

Spices & Flavorings:

Cocoa Powder or Cinnamon Powder: For extra dusting on top.
Nutella or Chocolate Spread: For a rich, chocolatey addition.
Peppermint or Vanilla Extract: Small bottles for flavor infusions.
Sea Salt: A pinch can enhance the chocolate flavor.
Chilli Powder: For an added kick.
Heavy Cream: Some people enjoy the extra creamy flavor.

Presentation:

Trays and Bowls: Use various sized trays and bowls to arrange the items.
Labels: Label each item so guests know their options.
Serving Tools: Provide tongs, spoons, and skewers for easy serving.

Additional Touches:

Themed Decorations: Depending on the occasion, you can add festive decorations.
Cozy Elements: Mini blankets or holiday-themed napkins can enhance the cozy atmosphere.
Hot Cocoa Recipes: Include recipe cards for guests to make their own custom hot cocoa.

This hot cocoa charcuterie board is not only a feast for the taste buds but also creates a visually appealing and engaging experience for your guests. It’s perfect for gatherings, especially during the colder months, and offers a fun and customizable way to enjoy hot chocolate.

Exploring the various options for what to eat with hot chocolate has been a delightful journey, from gourmet baked goods with cocoa to nutritious cocoa snack options. We hope this guide has inspired you to try new and exciting pairings, whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort snacking or something more adventurous.

Remember, the key to the perfect hot chocolate experience lies in finding the right balance between the rich cocoa beverage and its accompaniment, whether it’s a sweet treat, a savory snack, or a healthy alternative. So, next time you reach for that warm cup of hot chocolate, consider pairing it with one of our suggested snacks and transform your cocoa moment into an extraordinary culinary adventure.