Showing posts with label hot chocolate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hot chocolate. Show all posts

Wednesday, January 17, 2024

The Best Sugar-Free Hot Cocoa Bombs — An Outstanding Low-Carb Treat

We're in the thick of winter snowstorms here in New England. Since I have a bad back, my husband does the snow shoveling. I always greet him upon his return with a steaming cup of hot cocoa to warm him up and show my appreciation.

Since we both stopped eating sugar a few years ago (and feel so much better as a result), now I make sugar-free hot chocolate. If it's the weekend, I usually prepare my Ultimate Keto Hot Chocolate recipe, which is rich and decadent and has pretty much spoiled commercial hot cocoa mixes for us, but takes a bit more time and effort than using an instant hot cocoa mix.

However, when sugar-free ChocZero Hot Cocoa Bombs launched a few months ago, I was anxious to try them. Fortunately, they did not disappoint!

Now, if I want to make delicious hot cocoa with mini marshmallows quickly and easily, I just heat some almond or macadamia milk, drop in a ChocZero hot cocoa bomb, and stir until dissolved. Here's my product review of this outstanding low-carb treat.

ChocZero Sugar-Free Hot Cocoa Bombs
Image created using Canva generative AI

I have talked about ChocZero sugar-free chocolate and other sweet treats sweetened with natural monk fruit here on Review This Reviews, including ChocZero's mini marshmallows in my High-Protein, Sugar-Free Rocky Road Cottage Cheese Ice Cream recipe (still one of my favorites!); their regular sugar-free marshmallows in my Healthy Pistachio Cherry Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cereal Treats recipe; my review of the best sugar-free chocolate hazelnut spreads; ChocZero's fabulous truffles, chocolate keto bark, butter cookies, chewy caramels, jams, cookie spread, honey, and Rhea chocolate peanut nougat candy bars in my review of An Awesome Low Carb Gourmet Gift Basket Everyone Will Love; ChocZero's coffee syrups in my Refreshing Vanilla Italian Soda recipe; their sugar-free strawberry jam in my Low Carb Keto Shortcake Cupcakes recipe; and more.

So, even though I have been somewhat disappointed in the low-carb, sugar-free hot cocoa mixes I have tried, I knew ChocZero's sugar-free hot cocoa bombs would be worth a try.

What I Love About ChocZero Hot Cocoa Bombs

Awesome Packaging

The first thing you notice when you receive your order of ChocZero Hot Cocoa Bombs is the fabulous packaging.

The clear plastic box is printed with the ChocZero brand, product name, product image, and other pertinent information.

Because the outer box is clear, you can see through to the inside, where each hot cocoa bomb is snugly wrapped in festive bright gold foil that makes it look extra special.

There are four hot cocoa bombs per box. Inside the outer box, there is a protective molded plastic shell with four spherical depressions that cradle the foil-wrapped chocolate spheres and prevent them from being broken or otherwise harmed during transit.

The first two boxes I ordered were a gift for my husband since he loves hot chocolate so much.

Convenience

ChocZero Hot Cocoa Bombs in packaging

My husband and I really love my Ultimate Keto Hot Chocolate recipe and if I have all the ingredients on hand, it's a special treat.

However, the ChocZero Hot Cocoa Bombs are the first low-carb, sugar-free hot cocoa "mix" we've tried that we really enjoy.

They are also quicker and easier to prepare than my from-scratch recipe when we're looking for instant gratification.

And unwrapping each gold foil-wrapped ball really does add something special to the experience of making hot cocoa!

Rich Chocolate Taste and Luscious Mouthfeel

Like my ultimate keto hot chocolate recipe, the ChocZero Hot Cocoa Bombs include both cocoa powder and chocolate.

The chocolate shell creates a richer chocolate taste and a more luscious mouthfeel than the hot cocoa mix inside alone.

The chocolate shell also contains not only the sugar-free hot cocoa mix but also sugar-free mini marshmallows, which my husband and I both love in our hot cocoa.

Unlike most sugar-free hot cocoa mixes we've tried, we don't need to add anything to make this taste better, although we often enjoy adding a splash of one of ChocZero's flavoring syrups.

Sugar-free cocoa with mini marshmallows

How I Use ChocZero Sugar-Free Hot Cocoa Bombs

We start by unwrapping each hot cocoa bomb and placing it in a large mug.

Next, we heat the milk. Although you can use any kind of milk you prefer, we prefer to use either unsweetened vanilla almond milk or unsweetened vanilla macadamia milk to make our hot cocoa, since they are lower in natural sugar and carbs than dairy milk. We sometimes add a splash of heavy cream for added richness.

It's important to heat the milk very hot before pouring it over the hot cocoa bomb, and it takes a bit of stirring to completely melt the outer milk chocolate shell and dissolve the cocoa mix.

My husband and I love the flavor combination of chocolate and peppermint, so we usually add a splash of the awesome ChocZero Sugar-Free Peppermint Syrup into our prepared hot cocoa.

We also enjoy our cocoa with a splash of other ChocZero flavoring syrups, especially caramel or hazelnut. They're fabulous and don't have the unpleasant aftertaste or questionable sweeteners used in other brands of sugar-free syrups.

This flavored hot cocoa makes such a satisfying, sweet, low-carb treat that we often enjoy it for dessert.

What's Next?

I noticed the packaging includes the descriptor "Milk," so I'm hoping that ChocZero will be adding dark chocolate hot cocoa bombs in the future. 

One of the things I love about this brand is that they are always improving their products and adding new ones based on customer feedback. 

So, ChocZero, if you're reading this, I hope you'll consider making dark chocolate hot cocoa bombs next! 💓🍫


The Best Sugar-Free Hot Cocoa Bombs — An Outstanding Low-Carb Treat by Margaret Schindel


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Friday, January 14, 2022

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Collectible Gift Tins Reviewed

Swiss Miss Tins
One of my favorite gifts that I received this year for Christmas was a set of Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Tins filled with fabulous packets of instant hot chocolate.  This gift shows that my sister-in-law knows me well!

I am an unapologetic chocoholic. Any gift of chocolate is greatly appreciated.  Since I enjoy a mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter day, the hot cocoa was a perfect choice. 

I am also a collector of glass jars and tins.  I can trace my obsession to glass jars and tins to my favorite hobbies.  They make excellent and inexpensive containers for all kinds of craft supplies.  While glass jars are excellent for viewing contents, a tin won't break, which means they both have their place in my craft room.  

The adorable gnome tins will be an awesome addition to my collection of tins in my craft room when we have finished drinking the hot cocoa.  Correction:  when we have finished using them for hot cocoa. I have already had to replace the hot cocoa packets in two of my new tins and it has only been a few weeks since Christmas.  Most likely, I will keep two of the tins in my kitchen for continuous refills and use.

 

Swiss Miss Collectible Gift Tins

swiss miss collectible tins - gnomes
I had never seen the wonderful Swiss Miss tins before, but I will certainly be watching for additional sets.  

When writing this article, I checked Amazon to see if they had my gnome tins available.  While there, I noted some precious woodland animal Swiss Miss tins.  Of course, I had to order a set of those for my craft room.  I need more storage tins for craft supplies (yes, that was my excuse!) .  

Each Gnome tin contains 5 packets of hot cocoa.  My personal favorite is the marshmallow hot cocoa, but my husband prefers the milk chocolate. The animal tins contain 4 packets in each tin.  

For the first time in my entire life, I tried the peppermint hot cocoa that came in the tins.  I love it!  It is my new second favorite (sorry, the marshmallow can't be beat).  I also tried the caramel for the first time ever.  It is good, but the competition is stiff.  Still, if I run out of my marshmallow and peppermint, I'll be more than happy to enjoy a mug of caramel hot cocoa.  All of the flavors are fabulous!

 

How to Make Swiss Miss Cocoa Packets 

It is very easy to make hot cocoa with the Swiss Miss packets.  Simply pour the packet of mix into a mug, add 1 cup of hot water & stir.   It is important to note that you should only add 1 cup (measurement) of water.  More water will dilute it and diminish the chocolatey flavor.  

You can add fresh marshmallows, peppermint, or other toppings to create your own fun flavor of hot cocoa.

 

How to Get Your Own Set of Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Tins

 Swiss Miss Gift Pack Tins Gnomes Characters, 6.9 Oz pack of 4. LIMITED EDITION. Milk Chocolate, Peppermint, Marshmallow and Caramel FlavorsCheck Price Swiss Miss Hot Chocolate Variety Pack (4 Flavors), Hot Chocolate Mix, Hot Chocolate Variety, Hot Chocolate Swiss Miss, Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Instant Hot ChocolateCheck Price

 





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Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Collectible Gift Tins Reviewed by:
House of Sylvestermouse




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, December 5, 2020

Cocoa Day Review

Cocoa in a cup

National Cocoa Day is celebrated each year on December 13. A cup of cocoa or hot chocolate is the perfect way to set the scene for the upcoming winter holidays.

The terms hot cocoa and hot chocolate are pretty much interchangeable.  The difference being that hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder, heated milk or water, and sugar. Hot chocolate uses ground chocolate containing cocoa butter mixed with hot milk. 


|| Hot chocolate is also known as drinking chocolate. 


Origin of Cocoa


The first chocolate beverage was created by the Mayans over 2000 years ago. It became an essential part of the Aztec civilization by 1400 and eventually found it's way from Mexico to the New World. The original cocoa drink was created by grinding cocoa seeds into a paste and mixing it with water, cornmeal, chili peppers, and other ingredients.  This first cocoa was very bitter, since sugar had not yet been discovered, but was highly prized by the elite of the Aztec world. 


It was also thought to have medicinal properties to combat stomach ailments. In our modern times, the health benefits are known to come from the antioxidants in the chocolate.


A cup of hot chocolate
Source: Pixabay
Today's cocoa is sweet, and delicious. Plus, if you are in a hurry, hot chocolate is easily and quickly made using our modern-day instant cocoa mixes.





A snowman cocoa bomb
Snowman Hot Cocoa Bomb


Or ~ you could make a quick and fun cup of cocoa with a Cocoa Bomb! This snowman cocoa bomb, and other cute designs, such as a unicorn cocoa bomb, are handmade by ItzMyPartyCakery on Etsy.


Hot Cocoa Bombs! Place your cocoa bomb into a mug and add hot milk or hot water and watch the magic happen! Each Hot Cocoa Bomb come individually packaged in a crystal clear box. A perfect stocking stuffer, thank you, or special treat for yourself!



Hot Chocolate Recipes from Scratch


Hot chocolate in a cup
Source: Pixabay


Check out  Allrecipes for a delicious 'from scratch' hot chocolate recipe.


*For an even quicker way to make homemade hot chocolate, using cocoa powder and chocolate chips, check out this recipe from Allison featured on her blog Celebrating Sweets


Ways to Serve


A cup of cocoa in a festive holiday cup
Source: Pixabay

A cup of hot cocoa is delicious served in a variety of ways. Add one or more of the following toppings for a delicious warm drink on a cold winter's day.


  • Whipped cream
  • Cinnamon and sugar
  • Marshmallow
  • candy canes
  • caramel
  • toffee bits
  • coconut
  • Peppermint Patties
  • butterscotch candies, crushed
  • candy sprinkles
  • cinnamon cereal
  • mini chocolate chips
  • chopped nuts


Pick a pretty Cocoa Mug


Handmade cup with the words Hot Cocoa
Cocoa Mug - Etsy



Use your favorite mug for your cocoa or hot chocolate.  Or pick out a new one for this winter season, such as this darling Hot Cocoa mug available in the Hello Lovely Gift Shop on Etsy.


Mark the Date!


Mark December 13 on your calendar for National Cocoa Day and enjoy the relaxing and warming taste you've come to enjoy in a delicious cup of Cocoa.


A cup of hot cocoa with cookies
Source: Pixabay


Cocoa Day Review written by (c) Wednesday Elf on 12/5/2020



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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Friday, February 15, 2019

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa K-Cups Reviewed

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa k-cups are the best hot chocolate in a k-cup. After trying several brands, I finally found a delicious milk chocolate hot cocoa mix k-cup.
When I am chilled to the bone by the winter cold weather, I seek out my Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa k-cups for my Keurig coffee maker. There isn't anything better than a cup of hot chocolate on a cold day, especially when I need it fast!

I was hesitant to try the Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa simply because I don't normally like hot cocoa.  In most cases, I much prefer hot chocolate.  But, I really wanted a hot chocolate k-cup that I could make quickly when needed to warm up.  So, I kept tasting and testing.  My search is now finished and I extremely surprised that it has ended with a hot cocoa k-cup instead of hot chocolate. Regardless, I am thrilled the search is over and I have a k-cup that meets, and exceeds, my requirements.


Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa K-Cups 

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa K-Cups, Milk Chocolate, 72 CountSwiss Miss Hot Cocoa K-Cups, Milk Chocolate, 72 CountCheck PriceI tried several different brands of hot chocolate k-cups, but most of them tasted like nasty hot water.  As I said, I was hesitant to venture into the hot cocoa k-cups.  I really didn't wish to waste my money, again.  However, the Swiss Miss cocoa is a real winner!  

The Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa from the k-cup has a nice rich and delicious taste.  Plus, it really does have a milk chocolate flavor just like the package states.  Since it is made with water, and not milk, it isn't as thick as a homemade cup of hot cocoa, but it doesn't have that cocoa aftertaste.

Now, when I come in from the cold, I have a fast and easy hot drink to warm me up.  Oh, and it is extra delicious with those little marshmallows added. 



Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa k-cups are the best hot chocolate in a k-cup. After trying several brands, I finally found a delicious milk chocolate hot cocoa mix k-cup.

 

The Snow Leopard Mug

Snow Leopard Coffee MugSnow Leopard Coffee MugCheck PriceThe snow leopard mug you see filled with the Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa in the photo, is available on Zazzle.  It is one of my own personal photos that I have made available on a variety of Zazzle products.  The Snow Leopard mug does seem totally appropriate for warm hot cocoa on a cold day.  

Visually, I think the marshmallows bring out the beauty of the Snow Leopard's gorgeous fur.  



My mug is a little different from the one that is offered on Zazzle.  In my desire to feature the snow leopard face, I didn't realize I had off-centered the image until I got my own mug in the mail.  At that time, I went back into the Zazzle mug image set-up and centered the image on each side.  


Grab Your Mug of Swiss Miss Cocoa & Join Me Today!


Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa k-cups are the best hot chocolate in a k-cup. After trying several brands, I finally found a delicious milk chocolate hot cocoa mix k-cup.


 

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa K-Cups Reviewed Written by:
House of Sylvestermouse





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Food Review: The Best Simple Snacks for Santa

decorated gingerbread cookies
When Santa stops at your home, treat him nice with some special treats. Find a food that will please in this food review of the best simple snacks for Santa.


During the holidays, Santa is one busy person. Going from home to home, visiting all of the good girls and boys can sure work up an appetite. When Santa stops at your home, show him your hospitality and offer Santa a snack to warm him from his frosty nose to his icicle toes.

These snacks are made with real foods and can be served to unexpected visitors in just a few minutes. With a little advance preparation, these snacks can be heated up quickly to give you more time to spend with friends and family. And Santa, of course!

Offer Santa something hot to drink


After being out in the cold and snow, Santa will enjoy this delicious Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe. Dash to the pantry for some milk, cocoa powder, honey, and coconut oil. Then, turn on the stove and warm up the whole mix. In five minutes, you'll have a hot chocolate that's sure to bring Santa back next year.

This simple snack for Santa is so much better than the pre-made packaged hot cocoa mixes. The best part about his recipe is that you control the amount of sugar in the hot cocoa.

Set out a plate of Christmas cookies


Santa loves cookies and he'll be looking for that plate of cookies near the fireplace. Cookies give Santa a jolly feeling. This year, give Santa a traditional Christmas cookie made from real foods and made by hand.

These White Chocolate Dipped Chewy Gingerbread Cookies (www.jamhands.net/2013/12/white-chocolate-dipped-chewy.html)from Jam Hands will have Santa coming back for more. And, he may want to take the whole cookie jar home with him. These cookies aren't the hard and stale gingerbread men that stand guard over the gingerbread house decorations. These cookies are moist and chewy. And, the cookies can be dipped in white chocolate or almond bark for added flavor.

Send Santa on his way with a handheld snack



Santa has a busy night ahead of him and he'll need something hearty to fill his belly before he heads back out into the cold. Send Santa up the chimney with a savory snack that he can hold in one hand and eat along the way. Savory meat and vegetable pies will surely keep Santa from getting hungry as he makes his rounds all around town.

This Mushroom, Gorgonzola, and Caramelized Onion Hand Pies Recipe (www.10thkitchen.com/2013/11/mushroom-gorgonzola-caramelized-onion-hand-pies-recipe) can be made in advance and frozen until you're ready to feed Santa his Christmas feast. If you're afraid of making pasty dough, this recipe has an easy crust recipe that uses sour cream as the secret ingredient.

If you don't want to fuss with a crust, try these Crustless Mini Quiches (www.wickedgoodkitchen.com/crustless-mini-quiches-gluten-free-self-crust/) from Wicked Good Kitchen. These mini quiches are so easy to put together. Just pour the ham, bacon, cheese, and whipped eggs in muffin tins and bake. These quiches can be made in advance, stored in the freezer, and warmed up when you're ready to serve this simple snack for Santa.

Simple snacks for simple holiday pleasures


Be prepared for visitors this holiday season. Keep your refrigerator and pantry stocked with ingredients that can be mixed up and heated up quickly. Fix a few hearty handheld snacks in advance to keep dish washing to a minimum. Keep your holiday foods and beverages simple. You'll have more time to enjoy the season.





Posted by Coletta Teske
Coletta Teske

About This Contributor

Coletta Teske writes reviews on books, business management, writing, crafting, cooking, and gardening. She is also an avid recycler and shares her tips on recycling. She delights in upcycling an old object, recycling or transforming discarded items into a new treasure.




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