The Square Life

Hot Chocolate is great, but by the 14th mug-full, it's time to spice things up a bit!

1. ADD SOME FLAVA You can buy inexpensive bottles of flavoring syrup at the grocery store, usually located in the same aisle as the hot cocoa mix: hazelnut, caramel, strawberry . . . the options are endless.

2. MAKE IT A STEAMER All you need is a hot cup of milk and some flavoring syrup. Mix them together and you’ve got yourself a chocolate-less winter treat that will warm you right up. If you have a hot chocolate maker, use it. It makes the steamer more frothy.

3. GO WASSAIL-STYLE Simply add some orange zest for a little hint of wassail-ness.
SPICE IT UP No, really—add some spices. This variation of hot chocolate was originated by the Aztecs almost 3,000 years ago. Add 1 teaspoon of chili OR chipotle powder and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and/or nutmeg.

4. ADD A SCOOP Think ice cream is just for summer? Think again. Add a scoop of ice cream (the creamier the better) to your hot chocolate and enjoy a fabulous winter float. A spoonful of peanut butter or marshmallow crème is also tasty.