Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, the craving for warm, comforting flavors intensifies. This Christmas hot chocolate toast combines decadent chocolate with the familiar warmth of holiday spices, creating a delightful treat perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights by the fire.

Imagine a slice of buttery toast, generously topped with rich hot chocolate spread, fluffy marshmallows, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It's like enjoying your favorite festive beverage in solid form, sure to bring joy and warmth during the chilly winter days.

This recipe not only offers a fantastic way to use up leftover bread but also serves as a sweet surprise for family and friends. Gather your ingredients, and let’s spread the holiday cheer with this indulgent creation.

Ingredients

4 slices of thick bread
Thick bread, like brioche or challah, provides a sturdy base for the toppings, ensuring they hold up well and absorb the delicious flavors of the hot chocolate spread without becoming too soggy.
1 cup milk
Milk is essential for creating the rich, creamy hot chocolate spread. It enhances the overall texture and adds depth to the flavor, making the toast more indulgent and satisfying.
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Dark chocolate chips melt into a luxurious sauce, offering a bittersweet flavor profile that beautifully balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and the richness of the bread.
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the hot chocolate mixture, providing a smooth texture without the granulated graininess, allowing it to meld seamlessly with the chocolate and milk.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the chocolate spread, creating a more complex taste experience by adding notes of warmth and richness that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ground cinnamon adds a classic holiday flavor that invokes the spirit of Christmas. Its warm, spicy notes elevate the dish and complement the sweetness of the toast and toppings.
Mini marshmallows, for topping
Mini marshmallows are a delightful finishing touch, adding a light, fluffy texture and a bit of nostalgic sweetness reminiscent of classic hot chocolate, melting slightly into the warm chocolate spread.
Whipped cream, optional
Whipped cream creates an indulgent topping that adds extra creaminess and a visually appealing element to the dish. It's perfect for those who want to enhance the richness of the hot chocolate toast even further.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the hot chocolate spread.

In a small saucepan, combine the milk, dark chocolate chips, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Heat over medium-low, stirring continuously until the chocolate chips melt and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it creates the foundation of flavors for your toast, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.

Step 2: Toast the bread slices.

While the hot chocolate mixture is warming, toast your bread slices in a toaster or on a skillet until golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch and structure to the dish, allowing it to hold the hot chocolate spread without becoming too soggy. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy topping creates a textural delight.

Step 3: Spread the hot chocolate mixture on the toast.

Once the bread is toasted and the hot chocolate spread is ready, generously slather the mixture over each slice. This is where the magic happens, and it’s essential to ensure an even coating so each bite bursts with flavor. Consider using a butter knife or spatula for an easy, even spread to maximize enjoyment.

Step 4: Add mini marshmallows and broil.

Top each slice of toast with mini marshmallows and place them under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and slightly toasted. This step introduces a beautiful toasted flavor, transforming the marshmallows into a gooey, delightful topping that enhances the overall presentation and taste.

Step 5: Finish with whipped cream, if desired.

If you choose to use whipped cream, dollop it generously on top of the marshmallow-topped toast. This optional step elevates the indulgence and provides an extra layer of creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the warm chocolate and light marshmallow layer.

Step 6: Serve immediately.

Once ready, serve the toast immediately while it's warm. This is the perfect time to enjoy the melty chocolate, soft marshmallows, and crispy toast, ensuring a delightful experience that captures the essence of holiday warmth. Don't forget to take a moment to admire the presentation before diving in!

christmas hot chocolate toast step photo

Elevating the Chocolate Experience

Incorporating different types of chocolate can add a unique twist to your hot chocolate spread. For a more complex flavor, consider adding hazelnut chocolate or even mint-infused chocolate chips. Experimenting with blends will allow you to discover personal preferences and give your toast a distinct taste that reflects your creativity.

Alternative Toppings to Consider

While mini marshmallows are a classic, don’t hesitate to explore alternative toppings for your Christmas hot chocolate toast. Diced candy canes provide a refreshing crunch that complements chocolate beautifully, and crushed nuts can introduce an earthy flavor. Get creative with seasonal toppings, and invite family members to join the fun by customizing their toast!

Making It a Full Brunch Treat

Transform your Christmas hot chocolate toast into a full brunch treat by pairing it with festive sides like spiced fruit compote or yogurt. The contrast of the sweet chocolate toast with tangy or tart sides can create a balanced dining experience. Additionally, serving it alongside spiced coffees or festive teas enhances the holiday atmosphere for your brunch gathering.

FAQs

What should I do if my hot chocolate spread turns out too thick?

If your spread is too thick, gradually whisk in a bit more milk over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This will ensure a smooth, spreadable texture that adheres perfectly to your toast.

Can I make this with white chocolate instead?

Yes, substituting dark chocolate with white chocolate can create a sweeter and creamier spread. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the amount of sugar used, as white chocolate is typically sweeter.

What can I do to enhance the chocolate flavor further?

Consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the hot chocolate mixture, which intensifies the chocolate taste without adding specific coffee flavor. It's an excellent trick to deepen the rich chocolate experience.

How can I make this holiday treat more festive?

Try adding festive spices like nutmeg or cardamom into the chocolate mixture for a more seasonal twist. Sprinkling festive colored sugar or cinnamon on top before serving can also boost the visual appeal.

What if I want to serve this to a larger group?

To scale this recipe for larger gatherings, simply multiply the ingredient quantities according to the number of servings needed and prepare the mixture in batches. Preparing multiple toasts at once on a baking sheet can save time and ensure everyone enjoys this treat together.

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using gluten-free bread will work perfectly, ensuring that everyone can partake in this festive treat. Look for dense varieties that can hold the toppings well.

Conclusion

Creating Christmas hot chocolate toast is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about embracing the flavors and warmth of the holiday season. With its comforting combination of rich chocolate and warm spices, this recipe welcomes everyone to gather and indulge.

So, whether you're making it for a festive brunch, a cozy night in, or as a surprise for loved ones, you can be sure it will bring smiles and warmth to all. Enjoy every bite, and may your holidays be filled with joy and deliciousness.

Recipe Card

Print Pin