Holiday Dessert Board

Looking for a show-stopping dessert idea that’s as easy as it is festive? This holiday dessert board is guaranteed to delight! Imagine warm mugs of steaming hot chocolate (recipe below), topped with homemade whipped cream, surrounded by a delectable assortment of cookies and pastries. You can make the hot chocolate with any type of milk for a creamy and comforting treat. While my hot chocolate was pure and simple, you can jazz it up with a touch of sugar, a splash of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s a breeze to assemble and makes for a stunning centerpiece. Cheers to sweet, magical holidays!

Holiday Dessert Board

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Servings: 2 cups

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

Hot Chocolate

• 2 cups milk of your choice I've used both oat milk and cashew milk
• 2-3 tablespoons good unsweetened cocoa powder or to taste -I used Valrhona cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or coconut sugar or to taste- optional
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional
• Pinch of cinnamon optional

Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons confectioner's sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Method

 

1. Choose a large wooden board or serving platter and arrange an assortment of cookies, pastries and chocolates in small groups, varying the shapes, sizes and textures. Fill any gaps with chocolate pieces, mini marshmallows or other favorite sweets.
2. To make the whipped cream, pour the cold heavy cream into a mixing bowl. Add the sugar and vanilla, then beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Prepare the hot chocolate just before serving and pour into small mugs. Top with the homemade whipped cream and arrange the mugs on the board, leaving enough space for guests to pick up their treats easily. Place the hot mugs on heat-safe saucers to protect the board. Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar, if desired, and serve immediately.
Arrange the cookies, pastries and chocolates ahead of time, then add the mugs of hot chocolate just before serving. Keep extra hot chocolate warm on the stove so guests can enjoy a refill.