Ingredients:

  • 6 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (Double Cream)
  • 8 oz Dark Chocolate (70% Cacao), finely chopped or chips
  • ⅓ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
  • ½ cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • ¼ tsp Fine Sea Salt
  • 1 pint Fresh Whipped Cream (for bar)
  • 1 bag Large Marshmallows (for bar)
  • ½ cup Chocolate Sauce (Ganache or Syrup, for bar)
  • ½ cup Caramel Sauce (for bar)
  • 10–12 sticks Peppermint Sticks / Candy Canes (for bar)
  • ¼ cup Chocolate Shavings (for bar)
  • 2 Tbsp Sprinkles / Edible Glitter (for bar)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Chocolate: Finely chop the dark chocolate if using a block, ensuring the pieces are small to melt quickly. Set aside.
  2. Bloom the Cocoa (The Flavour Trick): In a large saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add about 1 cup (240 mL) of the whole milk and whisk vigorously until a smooth paste (slurry) forms. This prevents lumps and maximizes flavor.
  3. Heat the Dairy: Add the remaining whole milk and the heavy cream to the saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Heat the mixture until small bubbles begin to form around the edge of the pot (do not boil).
  4. Incorporate the Chocolate: Remove the saucepan completely from the heat. Add the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla extract. Let sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to allow the residual heat to start the melting process.
  5. Whisk to Perfection: Whisk gently until the chocolate is completely dissolved and the mixture is perfectly smooth, thick, and uniform. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
  6. Transfer and Hold (Bar Setup): Pour the hot chocolate base into a clean slow cooker set to the lowest ‘Keep Warm’ setting. Stir the chocolate every 30 minutes to prevent a skin from forming.
  7. Organise Toppings: Arrange all toppings (whipped cream, marshmallows, sauces, candies, etc.) in small, attractive bowls or jars for guests.
  8. Prepare the Sauces: Gently warm the chocolate and caramel sauces so they drizzle easily. Place small spoons in the sauce jars.
  9. Presentation is Key: Provide large mugs or insulated glasses and ladles. Encourage guests to scoop their preferred toppings first, then ladle the chocolate over the top to create their custom Gourmet Hot Chocolate Bar creation.