How to Set Up a Hot Cocoa Bar + 10 Hot Chocolate Recipes

When I was a kid, we would get together with friends and go caroling and then finish the evening with hot chocolate and cookies. Having friends over for cookies and hot cocoa is a frugal way to host a party during the holidays. It also happens to be a fun, delicious, and low-stress way to throw a holiday party!

I usually set up hot cocoa bars for parties, but sometimes I throw an impromptu one together after a day of playing in the snow. Whether it is an informal get together or a more organized party, hot chocolate bars are always a hit.

When I set up my hot cocoa bar, I do it one of two ways. I either make one big batch of Crock Pot Hot Cocoa and let everyone flavor it or I make several smaller batches of flavored hot cocoa. When I make hot cocoa in the slow cooker, I just add a ladle and serve it directly from the slow cooker. When I make smaller batches, I put them in tea pots and use place cards to label the different flavors.

How to Set Up a Hot Cocoa Bar

Items Needed:

Hot Chocolate (1 large pot or several flavors)
marshmallows (homemade marshmallows recipe)
whipped cream (homemade whipped cream recipe)
mugs, spoons, and napkins

Optional Items:

Candy Sprinkles (chocolate sprinkles, crushed candy canes, etc.)
Flavored Syrups (like chocolate syrup and caramel sauce)
Cinnamon Sugar
Instant Espresso Crystals
Candy Cane Stir Sticks (try these Candy Cane White chocolate Stir Sticks)

Setting Up the Hot Cocoa Bar:

Pick a space where people can easily move down a line, like a buffet or kitchen island.

Place the toppings in small bowls with spoons to make it easier for people to top their hot chocolate.

Try to place your toppings in the order that guests will most likely use them, so the line will flow faster.

Place cups, and spoons (or stir sticks) at the beginning of the bar. Having the spoons near the beginning of the buffet will allow your guest to easily stir the hot chocolate if they are adding in syrups.

If possible, place your cookies in another area. This will allow some guests to pick out cookies while the others are making their hot chocolate and will speed up serving time.