Candy Cane Hot Cocoa Recipe

According to Wikipedia, the origin of hot chocolate is believed to have come from the Mayan people over 2000 years ago. Cocoa beverages became very popular in Europe after being introduced from Mexico in the late 15th century. Typically made from melted chocolate or cocoa powder, sugar, milk, and water, this popular cold-weather drink is loved by many and served in coffee shops along side tea and lattes. If you've never made homemade hot cocoa, you're in for a real treat. As convenient as individual packets of powdered hot chocolate are, there is no comparison between quality and taste when making this favorite warm beverage at home. Flavored with crushed candy canes, this recipe is easy enough for older kids to make by themselves with supervision. Younger kids can help by measuring out ingredients and stirring everything right before you, the parent, pour the hot cocoa into individual mugs. Preschool-aged children will love adding marshmallows and placing a candy cane stirrer stick (with the hook end facing down) in each mug. Enjoy!