Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards

Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards is a warm and cozy drink that makes the perfect companion for chilly evenings. This delightful beverage combines the rich flavor of dark chocolate with the nutty goodness of almond, topped with sweet and crispy cranberry meringue shards. Each sip offers a lovely balance of creaminess and sweetness, and the meringue adds a unique texture that elevates the drink to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to enjoy a comforting treat at home, this hot chocolate is sure to please.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to fall in love with Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards. First, it’s a wonderful way to indulge in a classic wintertime favorite, but with a twist. The almond beverage makes it a lighter alternative to regular hot chocolate and gives it a unique flavor. The addition of dark chocolate brings richness, while the cranberry meringue adds a festive touch and a hint of tartness that perfectly balances the drink’s sweetness. This recipe is easy to make and is perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even a quiet night in.

HOW TO MAKE Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards

Making Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards is a straightforward process. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a tasty drink that impresses everyone.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this delicious hot chocolate, you will need:

• A medium saucepan
• A whisk
• A mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A spatula for serving
• Serving mugs

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare the Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 liter sweetened fortified almond beverage
• 115 g dark chocolate (56 percent), chopped
• 45 ml almond butter
• 15 ml cocoa
• 125 ml 35 percent cream
• 10 ml sugar
• Cranberry meringue, roughly crumbled

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 liter of sweetened fortified almond beverage, 115 g of chopped dark chocolate, 45 ml of almond butter, and 15 ml of cocoa.
2. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Make sure to whisk constantly to mix everything well.
3. Whip the Cream: While your hot chocolate is heating, take a mixing bowl and add 125 ml of 35 percent cream and 10 ml of sugar. Whisk the cream until it forms soft peaks.
4. Serve: Once the hot chocolate is ready, pour it into serving mugs. Add a generous spoonful of the whipped cream on top and sprinkle with the roughly crumbled cranberry meringue shards to add a delightful crunch.
5. Enjoy: Sip your Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards and enjoy the delightful flavors!

 

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards

Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards can be served warm in mugs. It is a lovely drink for a winter gathering or a cozy movie night at home. This drink pairs nicely with holiday cookies or a slice of pie. You can also offer toppings like extra meringue shards, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for those who want to customize their drink.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards

If you have leftover hot chocolate, let it cool completely. Then transfer the drink to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for about 2 to 3 days. To reheat, warm the hot chocolate on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. It is important not to boil it again.

The cranberry meringue shards are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. They may lose some crispness over time.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards is great for any occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:

1. Holiday Gatherings: Serve this warm drink at holiday parties for a delightful treat.
2. Chilly Evenings: Enjoy it as a comforting drink on a cold winter night.
3. After-Dinner Dessert: This hot chocolate can be a wonderful ending to a meal, especially with a light dessert.

VARIATIONS

There are many fun ways to switch up this Almond Hot Chocolate recipe:

1. Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday touch.
2. Nut-Free: Replace the almond beverage with oat or coconut milk for a nut-free option.
3. Vegan Option: Use non-dairy whipped cream and ensure that the chocolate is dairy-free for a vegan treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of almond beverage? Yes, you can use regular milk if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

2. How can I make this hot chocolate sweeter? You can add more sugar or use sweeter chocolate to adjust the sweetness to your liking.

3. Can I make this drink ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the hot chocolate ahead of time and reheat it when needed. Just store it in the refrigerator.

4. What can I replace the cranberry meringue with? You can use other toppings like crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or mini marshmallows if you prefer.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Almond Hot Chocolate with Cranberry Meringue Shards

To save time, you can make the meringue shards the day before serving. Store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them. For the hot chocolate, you can have all the ingredients measured and ready to go, so when you’re ready to serve, you just need to mix and heat it up. This way, you can enjoy the drinks without much hassle when your guests arrive.

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