Here at The Commoner we’re all for holiday spirit. But sometimes the fun of curling up on a cold winter day doesn’t include a trip through the drive through. So here are our top five favorite hot chocolate recipes to try out this winter. [Recipes courtesy of Blendtec.]

1. Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate

Looking for a unique spin on classic hot coco, but aren’t willing to sacrifice the sweetness? Opt for this variation of the traditional holiday peanut butter, chocolate pairing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup milk
• ¼ cup half and half
• 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter

Just as simple as it sounds- first you’ll bring your milk and cream to a simmer over medium-low heat, but be sure not to let it boil. When the milk begins to steam, it’s your chance to add the chocolate. Stir until melted, add peanut butter, and continue stirring. Pour into your favorite holiday mug, top with your choice of mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or both, and enjoy.

2. Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Nothing says festive quite like the timeless candy cane. So why not add a little peppermint to your recipe? Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 peppermint sticks
• 1 cup sugar
• 2/4 cup instant nonfat dry milk
• ¾ cup powdered nondairy coffee creamer
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa

Blend your peppermint sticks using a blender until crushed into a powder and add to the remainder of your ingredients. This mix can be stored for up to a month. To use the mix simply stir 2 ½ to 3 tablespoons into 1 cup of hot milk until dissolved.

3. Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

If you were a fan of the traditional peppermint hot chocolate, we just made it 10 times better. Introducing peppermint… wait for it… white hot chocolate. This spin on our beloved usual recipe, topped with whip cream and crushed candy canes is the perfect, photo worthy, cup of cocoa for winter. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz. white baking chocolate (chopped)
• 4 cups half-and-half
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

Combine heavy cream and chocolate in a medium saucepan, cooking and stirring on medium heat until melted. Add your half-and-half and peppermint extract. Continue to cook. Pour yourself a serving, grab a candy cane, and you’re good to go.

4. Mocha Hot Chocolate

If you’re anything like me, you prefer coffee to cocoa, but who says you can’t have both? Here’s an pick dedicated to our coffee lovers. Get ready to concoct the perfect bittersweet combination. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup instant espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 6 cups milk (scalded)
• 2 cups half-and-half (scalded)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 cup cold water

Combine your cocoa powder, sugar, espresso powder, vanilla, salt, and water in a large saucepan. Using low heat, whisk until powder is dissolved. Gradually add your milk and half-and-half. Be sure not to let your mixture boil. Once you have whisked your cocoa to perfection get ready to serve. Looking for a little extra decadence? Use a blender to add froth.

5. Classic Hot Chocolate

You never can beat a classic. And when it comes to the holidays, why even try? Here’s the classic cocoa you’ve been searching for. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 cup milk
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk your cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and 2 tablespoons of milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until dissolved. Whisk in the remaining milk and continue to whisk periodically until hot. Stir in vanilla and serve. Again, if desired, use a blender to add froth.

Not a traditionalist? Try using this basic recipe as the framework to build your own cocoa. Try adding spices, flavoring, coffee mixes, chocolate(s), or even different milks to reach your desired cup of cocoa.

Did you try any of these recipes? Or even have one of your own? Leave us a comment down below telling us all about it.