How To Make The Best Hot Cocoa Bombs

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Get ready to cozy up this winter with the best hot cocoa bombs! It’s time to indulge in the cozy comforts of winter with a delightful twist on a classic favorite.

These hot cocoa bombs are not only delicious but also add a bit of excitement to your cold, winter nights. Trust us, you’ll never want to go back to plain cocoa again!

But what exactly are these magical spheres of sweetness, and why have they become so popular? Let’s see exactly how to make the best hot cocoa bombs in such an easy way that literally anyone can do it!

What are Hot Cocoa Bombs?

Hot cocoa bombs, also known as hot chocolate bombs, are dome-shaped chocolate shells filled with hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, and sometimes other flavorful additions like peppermint chips or caramel bits. When placed in a mug and hot milk is poured over them, the chocolate shell melts, releasing the cocoa mix and other goodies inside, resulting in a rich and creamy cup of hot chocolate.

The allure lies in the anticipation of watching the bomb dissolve when hot milk is poured over it, revealing a charming explosion of flavors with a touch of whimsy and surprise. It’s no wonder these hot chocolate bombs are taking the spotlight by storm!

Creating these delightful bombs is surprisingly easy. By following the simple recipe I have for you below, you can craft not just your own hot cocoa bombs but the best hot cocoa bombs you’ve ever tasted!

How to Use Hot Cocoa Bombs

Unfamiliar with hot cocoa bombs? That’s okay – not everyone is aware of their goodness. They’re almost like a juicy secret that’s been leaked to the masses. Using hot cocoa bombs is straightforward and fun. 

Simply place a bomb in your favorite mug and pour about 1½ cups of hot milk over it.

Watch as the chocolate melts, releasing the cocoa mix and marshmallows. Stir well to blend the ingredients into a smooth, rich hot chocolate.

You can also add extra toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, or a dash of cinnamon for an added touch of flavor. Really, the possibilities are many.

Creating Your Own Hot Cocoa Bombs

Making your own hot cocoa bombs is easy and customizable. The process involves melting chocolate, forming it into molds, filling, and then sealing the spheres. It’s a fun activity to do with family or friends or on those evenings when you’re feeling a spark of creativity.

Hot Cocoa Bombs Ingredients

• Chocolate Chips – we recommend using semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Hot Chocolate Mix – for the center of the hot cocoa bombs
• Mini Marshmallows – these are optional
• Silicone Molds – 2 inch molds are the best size

How To Make The Best Hot Cocoa Bombs The EASY Way

Melting the Chocolate

• Fill a medium pot halfway with water. Bring the water to a simmer over low heat.
• Place a heat-safe bowl (glass or stainless steel) that can just fit on top of the pot of simmering water.
• Add the chocolate chips to the bowl. Keep the heat on low and use a rubber spatula to stir the melting chocolate chips until smooth.

To Make the Molds

• Add a large spoonful of the melted chocolate to each of the chocolate molds.
• Use the spoon to spread the chocolate up the sides of each mold. Make sure the entire inside of each mold is evenly coated with chocolate. Save extra chocolate to use later.
• Freeze the chocolate until completely set – about 10-15 minutes.
• Once set, carefully remove the chocolate cups from the mold and place on parchment paper or wax paper.

Assembling Hot Chocolate Bombs

• Fill half of the molds with 2-3 tablespoons of hot chocolate mix and 2 tablespoons of mini marshmallows.
• Microwave a microwave-safe plate for 90 seconds. One at a time, take one of the remaining chocolate halves and gently press and twist on the hot plate to melt and smooth the edges.
• Place on top of a filled half-sphere to create a whole sphere.
• Decorate with any extra melted chocolate, sprinkles, and other candies. Use immediately, or within 24 hours, for best results. Store at room temperature.
• To make hot chocolate, add a chocolate bomb into a mug. 
• Slowly pour about 1½ cups of hot milk over the bombs and stir. Sip and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Store Hot Cocoa Bombs

You might not eat all the hot cocoa bombs in one sitting, and that’s quite already. Maybe you have leftover bombs that you want to store.

Store Your Bombs at Room Temperature

Hot chocolate bombs should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. They can last for up to 2 weeks, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the mood strikes.

How Long Do Hot Chocolate Bombs Last in the Fridge?

While storing them at room temperature is recommended, if you choose to refrigerate them, they can last up to a month. However, just be aware that the fridge might cause condensation, potentially affecting the texture and appearance of the chocolate.

What Can You Put Inside a Hot Cocoa Bomb?

Typically, they contain hot cocoa mix and mini marshmallows. But you definitely don’t need to stop there! These little orbs of chocolatey goodness are the perfect vessel for all of your favorite add-ins.

You can get creative by adding cinnamon, crushed candy canes, peppermint, caramel bits, chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for an adult version. Or maybe you’re feeling a bit adventurous? Try a scoop of peanut butter (or add in peanut butter cups) or a swirl of caramel sauce.

For those looking to really amp up the heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or a drop of peppermint essential oil can take your cocoa from ordinary to extraordinary. And if you’re really feeling fancy, add in some Bailey’s or Kahula for a boozy twist!

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use to Make the Best Hot Chocolate Bombs?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips, as mentioned in the recipe, are ideal for a balanced flavor. You can also experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your taste preference.

Can You Put Cocoa Bombs in Coffee?

Absolutely! For a mocha twist, drop a cocoa bomb into a mug of hot coffee. The chocolate and marshmallows will add a sweet, creamy dimension to your coffee. You could even do away with the creamer or sugar this time! That’s a nice change, right?

How Do Hot Chocolate Bombs Work?

The magic of hot cocoa bombs lies in their construction. The heat from the milk melts the chocolate shell, causing it to open and release the cocoa mix and marshmallows inside, creating an instant cup of hot chocolate.

Are Hot Cocoa Bombs Better with Milk or Water?

Milk is the preferred choice for a creamier, richer hot chocolate. But if you’re not into dairy or milk, you can use a lactose-intolerant choice, such as plant-based milk alternatives, or you can also use water. I’ve done it all three ways and, while they each have their own taste, the end result is still delicious overload!

Can You Use Melted Chocolate Chips for Hot Chocolate Bombs?

Yes, melted chocolate chips are perfect for forming the shells of the bombs, as indicated in our recipe. However, if you’re feeling fancy, you can also use chocolate wafers or melting chocolates. These tend to be more fluid and easier to work with, but chocolate chips are a great budget-friendly option.

Problems: Are Your Hot Cocoa Bombs Bombing?

If you are facing any issues while making your hot chocolate bombs, read on for some Q&As that might help you solve any problems you may run into.

Why Do My Hot Chocolate Bombs Keep Melting?

This usually happens if they’re stored in a too warm environment. Make sure you are keeping the hot cocoa bombs at room temperature and away from direct sunlight or heat sources, like the oven, stove, coffee maker, air fryer, etc.

Some kitchens can become really warm when you’re cooking, so, if this happens in your kitchen, you should probably determine the best time to make hot cocoa bombs. For instance, you won’t want to make them immediately after cooking a large dinner since your kitchen will still be hot from the meal.

On the other hand, you won’t want to make them immediately before cooking a big dinner with heating elements either, since you’ll be storing the bombs at room temperature, likely on your countertops in the kitchen. They’ll likely melt before you even have a chance to use one!

How Do You Get Hot Cocoa Bombs to Stick Together?

After filling one half with cocoa mix and marshmallows, the most efficient way to keep the hot cocoa bombs together is by gently melting the edges of the other half on a warm plate and pressing it onto the filled half to seal.

If you happen to have a piping bag on hand, you can use that, in lieu of the hot plate, by putting the melted chocolate in the bag, and then squeezing it through the piping bag around the edge of one of the halves. But you can’t dilly dally with this option – the hot chocolate will need to go immediately into the piping bag and straight to squirting it around the edges before it begins losing its warmth.

Why Are My Hot Chocolate Bombs Turning White?

This is likely due to chocolate bloom, more specifically “fat bloom,” caused by temperature changes or moisture. It’s harmless and quite common, but can affect the appearance. When chocolate is warmed, the cocoa butter within it becomes soft and separates from the other ingredients. As it rises to the surface and solidifies again, it forms what we call the “bloom.”

Why Are My Hot Cocoa Bombs Cracking?

Cracking can occur if the chocolate shell is too thin, so if this is your case, try using a thicker layer of chocolate for extra stability.

How Do You Make Cocoa Bombs Shiny?

For a shiny finish, make sure the chocolate is correctly tempered. This involves melting and cooling the chocolate to stabilize it, giving it a glossy, smooth appearance. Try avoiding overheating the chocolate because, if you do, this can result in a dull finish or dry patches around your bombs. The best hot cocoa bombs happen when the heating is just right.

Tips and Tricks for Making Hot Cocoa Bombs

• Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for good quality chocolate for the outer shell as it will give your hot chocolate bombs a rich and flavorful taste. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
• Make sure the fillings are dry: Before assembling your hot chocolate bombs, ensure that the fillings are completely dry. Moisture can cause the chocolate shell to break or become soggy.
• Use the right molds – using larger silicone molds will make easier to make these hot chocolate molds. I recommend using molds that are at least 2 inches wide.
• Disposable Gloves – You don’t have to use gloves but I highly recommend using them if you don’t want to leave fingerprints on your hot cocoa bombs.