A party where you can create your perfect hot chocolate with syrup, candy canes, and marshmallows all in one yummy cup? Yes, please! Shutterfly has created a fun idea for your next holiday party featuring a hot chocolate bar. Best of all, they have free printables.
Creating a hot chocolate bar is quite simple and with the holidays knocking on our door, you’ll want to plan a party that will keep your guests cozy. A hot chocolate bar is the best way for guests of all ages to interact and have fun while making their drink.
No matter how many guests you host, having a variety of toppings is key. Below are some topping suggestions and extra items to have like spoons, labels, and treats! Don’t worry about having too much–no one will complain about all that extra chocolate.
Suggestions for a hot chocolate bar
A hot chocolate bar usually requires the following items: hot chocolate, hot milk (for cocoa powder or chocolate stirrers), thermos or coffee dispensers, toppings, paper cups or mugs, spoons, and stirring sticks.
If you want to add a variety, there are many ways to do so. Peppermint candy, chocolate shavings, caramels, and cinnamon sticks. Irish cream or coffee-flavored liqueur is great for an adult-only celebration.
Topping ideas
- Marshmallows
- Peppermint candy
- Spearmint candy
- White chocolate chips
- Chocolate chips
- Cinnamon sticks
- Caramel
- Maple syrup
How To Decorate Your Hot Chocolate Bar
First, choose a theme. Is this a casual and cozy setting or a more formal occasion, such as a wedding? Once you’ve selected a party theme, decide where you want to set up. For a wedding, next to the desserts and cake would be great, but if it’s an informal setting, an area by the kitchen will be easier to refill and clean up.
Add a Unique Tablecloth
Your tablecloth doesn’t have to be an actual tablecloth. A warm blanket or large scarf will work perfectly well and give your table that cozy feeling.
Create a backdrop
Using a banner or DIY backdrop makes all the difference when creating your setup. A simple solution is to freehand letters (or use stencils!) on a poster board, cut them out, and paint them. Think of a fun quote your guests would enjoy.
Gather your items
For displaying all of your chocolate bar items, choose trays, containers, and jars. Balance your items and have different levels for easy access. The messiest ingredients, such as syrups, should go on the bottom, while paper cups can be placed in a cupcake or stand.
Label Your Items
Whether you decide to use glass jars or bottles, don’t forget to label all of your items. For a sweet display, download our printable labels below. Simply cut, glue, or attach them using string to your supplies.
Add Treats
A cookie swap is a fun way to get everyone involved, but you can opt to head to your local market and gather some goodies, such as brownies and cupcakes, and place them on a nice tray.
Make Chocolate Stirrers
What’s the next best thing to creamy chocolate? Hot chocolate sticks. By making fun variations of hot chocolate flavors, such as salted caramel, s’mores, coffee, or mint, your guests can enjoy dunking these into their mug filled with warm milk or use them to add more flavor to their chocolate.
As mentioned, setting up a chocolate bar easy and it will allow you and your guests to relax without worrying about what each person prefers to drink. Eat chocolate and be merry this holiday season.
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