Hot Chocolate Bombs

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Indulge in the ultimate winter treat with my delectable hot chocolate bombs! Imagine the pure joy of watching a chocolate sphere melt away in a steaming cup of milk, revealing a rich, velvety cocoa mix and a delightful surprise of mini marshmallows within. It's not just a drink; it's a cozy, chocolatey experience that warms the soul on those chilly days.

Are hot chocolate bombs worth it?

Like every other foodie, I was keen to try the hot chocolate bomb food trend (back in 2021 when it just started). And I’m so glad I did! First, let me just say that the final outcome of the recipe is so gorgeous. BUT there might be a huge chocolate mess in your kitchen throughout the whole process. And if you are a perfectionist and get upset when things don’t look as you planned, then you might want to give this a miss.

I don't consider myself a professional in working with melted chocolate but I really wanted to give this hot chocolate bomb recipe a go. I went to a workshop a few years ago and learned all about tempering chocolate but once you’re home, things can go way different as you don’t have the same tools or space. I only wanted hot chocolate and to see the bombs melt in the milk, I wasn’t looking to open a chocolate factory so the mess that came with making this recipe was a bother!

What are hot chocolate bombs made of?

Crafted with just a handful of simple ingredients – luscious dark chocolate, a homemade hot cocoa mix, and a touch of whimsy with sprinkles – these hot chocolate bombs are as delightful to make as they are to enjoy. Whether you're craving a comforting evening treat or planning to surprise your loved ones, my step-by-step guide will lead you through the magical process of creating these delightful spheres of delight.

How to make hot cocoa bombs

I used dark chocolate and melted it in the microwave, I didn’t use a food thermometer. Now, it wasn’t so well tempered since every time I touched the little spheres, I left a fingerprint on them.

To create the spheres I used a silicone mold. I filled each sphere with a teaspoon of melted chocolate, placed it in the freezer to set, and then I created a second layer of chocolate so the spheres will be a bit more firm.

To fill the bombs, I used my recipe for homemade hot cocoa. I filled the bombs with the cocoa powder mixture and with mini marshmallows, closed every 2 spheres and garnished with more melted chocolate and sprinkles.

You can use store-bought hot chocolate mix as well. However, when making it at home, you control the amount of sugar in it so I prefer to make this way.

How to use hot chocolate bombs

To finish and enjoy the miracle of the bomb opening in the milk, place one in a mug. Warm milk in a different mug in the microwave or if you prefer in a small pot on the stovetop. You can use any milk you want, dairy or non-dairy.

Do you put hot chocolate bombs in hot water or milk?

Using hot milk instead of hot water is what gives hot chocolate made with these bombs its rich and velvety texture. However, if you prefer a lighter hot chocolate, you can use hot water instead, but it won't be as creamy. I think it's nicer with milk and prefer it over water.

And then the moment of truth - pour the hot milk on the bomb and wait for it to open. Stir the chocolate mix and enjoy.

Tips to help you make perfect hot chocolate bombs

Use Good-Quality Chocolate

The key to a delicious hot chocolate bomb is using high-quality chocolate. Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich and luxurious taste.

Properly Temper the Chocolate

When melting the chocolate, use a microwave or a double boiler, and be sure not to overheat it. Overheated chocolate can become grainy or lose its temper, resulting in a less smooth finish.

Coat the Mold Thoroughly

Ensure that you evenly coat the silicone mold with melted chocolate to create a sturdy shell. Use a spoon to spread the chocolate and make sure there are no thin spots that could break when removing the bomb from the mold.

Chill Between Layers

Cooling the chocolate between layers is essential for a sturdy shell. Place the mold in the freezer for a few minutes after the first layer, then add a second layer of chocolate. This helps prevent cracking and ensures a strong seal.

Seal the Bombs Well

When joining the two halves of the chocolate spheres, ensure they are sealed tightly by piping or spreading a bit of melted chocolate around the rim of one half before pressing them together. This prevents the hot cocoa mix from escaping when the bomb is added to hot milk.

Store Properly

Keep your hot chocolate bombs in an airtight container in a cool, dry place until you're ready to use them. This will help preserve their freshness and prevent moisture from affecting the chocolate.

Serve with Hot Milk

To enjoy your hot chocolate bomb fully, heat milk until steaming (but not boiling), and then pour it over the bomb in a mug. Watch as the bomb melts and the hot cocoa mix and marshmallows are revealed. Stir well to ensure everything is thoroughly combined.

FAQS

Can I use any type of chocolate for hot chocolate bombs?

While you can use various types of chocolate, it's recommended to use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich and flavorful result. You can also use milk or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

How do I melt chocolate for making hot chocolate bombs?

You can melt chocolate in the microwave by heating it in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until it's smooth. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler to melt the chocolate over simmering water.

How long do hot chocolate bombs last?

Hot chocolate bombs can last for several weeks to a few months if stored properly in an airtight container. However, for the best taste and quality, it's recommended to use them within a month.

Can I customize the fillings in hot chocolate bombs?

Absolutely! You can get creative with the fillings in hot chocolate bombs. Besides mini marshmallows, you can add caramel bits, flavored extracts, spices like cinnamon or chili powder, or even small pieces of your favorite chocolate bars.

Can I make hot chocolate bombs in advance for gifts or events?

Yes, you can make hot chocolate bombs in advance and store them until you're ready to use them or give them as gifts. Just make sure to store them properly to maintain their freshness.

Can I make hot chocolate bombs without a silicone mold?

While silicone molds are commonly used for making hot chocolate bombs, you can also try using plastic or metal molds designed for bath bombs or other spherical shapes. Just ensure they are clean and food-safe.

Can you just eat a hot chocolate bomb?

While hot chocolate bombs are primarily designed to be dissolved in hot milk to create a delicious cup of hot chocolate, you can certainly eat them as a chocolate treat if you prefer. The outer shell of the hot chocolate bomb is made of chocolate, so it's perfectly edible. Just keep in mind that it may be quite rich, especially if it's made with dark chocolate. If you choose to eat a hot chocolate bomb, you can simply bite into it like you would with a piece of chocolate. Inside, you'll find the hot cocoa mix and any additional fillings, such as mini marshmallows or other ingredients, which can also be enjoyed along with the chocolate. So, while the traditional way to enjoy a hot chocolate bomb is by melting it in hot milk, eating it as a chocolate snack is a valid option for those who appreciate the combination of chocolate and hot cocoa mix.

Can you use coffee instead of milk for hot chocolate bombs?

Yes, you can use coffee instead of milk to make hot chocolate bombs if you want to create a coffee-flavored variation. This can be a great option for coffee lovers who enjoy the combination of coffee and chocolate. Simply place the hot chocolate bomb in a mug, just like you would with hot milk. Pour hot coffee over the bomb. As the coffee melts the chocolate shell, stir the mixture until the cocoa mix and any other fillings are fully dissolved and incorporated into the coffee. You can also experiment with different coffee types, such as espresso or flavored coffee, to tailor the flavor to your liking. Enjoy your coffee-flavored hot chocolate bomb!

Other recipes to try:

For all my recipes with chocolate, check out my chocolate recipe index.

Make hot chocolate bombs today!

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines the art of chocolate craftsmanship with the cozy warmth of a classic hot cocoa. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and prepare to savor a cup of hot chocolate like never before. It's time to make memories and share the love, one hot chocolate bomb at a time.