Hot Cocoa with Sweet Drop Rim
Updated: Aug 28
Some recipes feel like pure comfort, and hot cocoa is one of them. Growing up, it was the drink we begged for after a cold day outside, the one that warmed our hands and made us slow down just a little.
This version brings that memory forward with a twist. Dipping the mugs in Sweet Drop and coconut makes each cup feel extra festive, like the kind of treat you’d save for the holidays. It’s simple, but it turns something ordinary into a moment worth savoring. Our dad loves coconut and all things sweet, so this is a drink we know he'll enjoy.
That’s what we love about this recipe. It’s not just cocoa, it’s the pause, the laughter at the table, the sticky smiles with whipped cream mustaches. It’s a reminder that every good story starts at the table, even if that table is covered in mugs of cocoa and crumbs of coconut.
Hot Cocoa with Sweet Drop + Coconut Rim
Rich, creamy homemade hot cocoa served in mugs rimmed with Sunday Dinner’s Sweet Drop and shredded coconut. This easy hot chocolate recipe turns a classic cold-weather favorite into a festive treat for holiday gatherings, family movie nights, or cozy evenings at home.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 10 min | Serves: 2
Ingredients
2 cups milk
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons Sunday Dinner Sweet Drop, for the rim
2 tablespoons shredded coconut, for the rim
Whipped cream, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the mugs. Combine Sweet Drop and shredded coconut on a small plate. Lightly moisten the rim of each mug with water, then dip and gently twist in the Sweet Drop and coconut mixture until coated.
2. Make the hot cocoa. Add the milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, whisking frequently until the cocoa and sugar have dissolved and the mixture is smooth and steaming.
3. Add the vanilla. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour and top. Carefully pour the hot cocoa into the prepared mugs. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
5. Serve. Add an extra sprinkle of Sweet Drop or shredded coconut over the whipped cream and serve warm.
A Few Notes
Toast the shredded coconut first for an extra layer of flavor and a little crunch.
For a dairy-free version, use oat, almond, or your favorite non-dairy milk.
Don't boil the cocoa. Gentle heat keeps it smooth and creamy.
Making cocoa for a crowd? Double or triple the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker. Prepare the Sweet Drop coconut rims just before serving.
Mini marshmallows are always welcome.
Approximate Nutrition
Per serving: 250 calories | 9g fat | 38g carbohydrates | 8g protein | 130mg sodium
Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary depending on the milk, toppings, and amount of Sweet Drop used.
Made with Sweet Drop
Our cinnamon sugar blend with a hint of cocoa adds an extra layer of warm flavor to the coconut rim—and makes an already cozy cup of hot cocoa feel like a treat.
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