12 Non-Traditional Hot Chocolate Recipes You Need to Try Now

While it’s wonderful to spend time with family or decorate the tree with snow outside your window, cozying up in bed with festive films and a steaming mug of hot chocolate makes the holidays even better.

In so many ways, hot chocolate actually says “happy holidays!” much better than words. There’s a whole new world of the sweet and steamy beverage that shies away from the traditional favorites like grandma’s double-chocolate hot cocoa.

From exotic to vegan and cutesy to spiked, we’re looking forward to warming up with these unique hot chocolate recipes.

{Image Credit: Minimalist Baker}

S’mores Hot Chocolate {via minimalist baker}

Marshmallows and Christmas go hand-in-hand, but they are also a beloved summer treat. If you’re missing those warm campfires, look no further to this amazing-beyond-words hot chocolate featuring marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate. Yes, you guessed right — s’mores for Christmas, because that can be a new thing.

Pumpkin Spice Dark Hot Chocolate {via cooking with manali}

Rich and oh-so-chocolate-y, this dark blend is bursting with pumpkin spice and cinnamon. While you taste fall flavors that just snuggle you in every sip, you definitely feel those wintry vibes with this treat. Not to mention, the flavors of the dark chocolate very much complement the pumpkin spice.

Red Wine Hot Chocolate {via imma eat that}

Chocolate with wine is an age-old love, so let’s just combine the two always. Whether you are sitting back this holiday with family and friends watching Christmas movies or listening to festive tunes, this rich, hot drink is more fit for sipping out of a small glass than gulping from a mug. Moreover, it makes for a perfect party tradition.

Peppermint Patty {via life’s ambrosia}

This minty and warm hot chocolate is the perfect addition to your festive afternoon of tree trimming and gift-wrapping. Alongside sugar cookies and candy canes atop whipped cream for a garnish, this warm, minty and full of rich chocolate drink is full of flavors that blends beautifully with the season.

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate {via eat-drink-love}

Using chocolate instead of powder, this delicious gingerbread flavored hot chocolate is super easy to make and ideal for snowflake watching. With that crisp ginger flavor, as the perfect pairing to your Christmas morning, it’s a drink that isn’t too sweet but can be sweetened with extra sugar if needed.

{Image Credit: Brown Eyed Baker}

Hot White Chocolate Steamers {via brown eyed baker}

No holiday is complete without a fun, festive drink. A mixture of ground white cocoa and whipped cream vodka, this hot chocolate is not only pretty and flavorful, but it’s also sure to warm you all over. Plus, the colors and wintery vibes brought in part by the candy cane toppings will make you want to snap some sweet photos for social media.

Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate {via a beautiful mess}

Salted caramel has become the next biggest trend, so naturally we have to have it as a hot chocolate. Rich and thick, this salty and sweet hot chocolate is to-die-for and seriously a must-try! Served best with a little whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt, it is one that feels super gourmet and artisan.

Orange Pisco Hot Chocolate {via serious eats}

With a little Grand Marnier and orange pisco, this decadent hot chocolate tastes like those chocolate oranges we get around the holidays, but of course, even better. Made with less than 10 ingredients, this adult treat is best served with whipped cream, candied orange peels and orange zest for a citrus-filled flavor that embodies the season.

Hot Choc-Colada {via shugary sweets}

The holidays are all about indulging, kicking back and enjoying the season with family and friends. And of course, the best drink to share with those you love is one that is spiked. This spiced blend of hot chocolate and piña colada with honey and toasted coconut brings a little island flair to your festive fun this holiday!

{Image Credit: Gimme Some Oven}

Mexican Spiced Hot Chocolate {via gimme some oven}

With its chipotle powder and cayenne providing an extra kick, this Mexican hot chocolate will satisfy every craving on a chilly winter’s night. Unbelievably delicious and rich, this mixture also smells as amazing as it is decadent. Best of all, it is perfect when topped with whipped cream, drizzled with chocolate syrup.

Lavender Hot Chocolate  {via freut cake}

Lavender might be known as a fragrant flower, but when it is ground up, it is also a very complementary herb. In addition to being smooth and so rich, this “grown-lady” hot chocolate is the quintessential soother for that holiday rush thanks to the lavender-infused milk. Topped with gooey marshmallows, it will be your new favorite of the season.

Vegan Chai Hot Chocolate {via fit foodie finds}

This flavorful hot chocolate made with almond milk is not only super quick to make, but it’s low in calories and the cocoa powder helps to all those chai flavors pop. Made with cardomom, all-spice, cinnamon, cloves and ginger, this chai-infused hot chocolate could give Starbucks a run for its money.

– Happy Holidays! – 

Featured image: iStock