This hot chocolate has only a few raw ingredients, yet the beverage has a wonderful depth and warmth, as well as a complex flavor: creamy, nutty and perfectly balanced between bitter and sweet. The addition of ground almonds makes for a silkier, buttery mouthfeel, especially if you whisk the milk constantly while heating it; this allows the nutty aroma of the almonds to permeate the drink for a richer sensation and fullness of flavor. The vanilla's pronounced aroma—paired with a greater percentage of cocoa—produces a comforting, familiar flavor profile that reminds us of high-quality milk chocolate. And cinnamon, a defining feature of Mexican hot chocolate, is an ideal complement for cacao's bitter undertones, as its spicy aroma brightens hot chocolate while its floral accents match those in the drink.

This hot chocolate has only a few raw ingredients, yet the beverage has a wonderful depth and warmth, as well as a complex flavor: creamy, nutty and perfectly balanced between bitter and sweet. The addition of ground almonds makes for a silkier, buttery mouthfeel, especially if you whisk the milk constantly while heating it; this allows the nutty aroma of the almonds to permeate the drink for a richer sensation and fullness of flavor. And cinnamon, a defining feature of Mexican hot chocolate, is an ideal complement for cacao's bitter undertones, as its spicy aroma brightens hot chocolate while its floral accents match those in the drink. We also like how the warming spice cuts through the creamy milk so the drink is satisfying but not overly rich. We found this chocolate to a fragrant finish that is slightly reminiscent of coconut.

This intricate wooden whisk from Mexico is the traditional tool used to prepare Mexican hot chocolate. Each molinillo is beautifully carved by hand from a single piece of alder wood, resulting in a one-of-a-kind product. And the designs aren't just decorative—the extra nooks and crannies are great for aerating liquid, resulting in an especially creamy drink. Simply roll the shaft back and forth between your palms to whip milk into a light, frothy consistency. For the most authentic experience preparing your hot chocolate and a visually appealing addition to your kitchen, Mexico's time-tested molinillo is perfect.

Our supplier partners with a single Mexican artisan to source these handcrafted terra cotta jugs, which are meant primarily for serving hot chocolate but can be used for a number of functions. The hourglass shape prevents liquid from splashing when you're whisking hot chocolate, and the clay can be heated directly on the stove over low flame to warm tea, coffee or even soup. Plus, the dramatic curves of the pitcher and handle make it an elegant and inviting decorative piece. To cure the jug before first use, fill with cool water below its rim and bring the water to a boil on the stove. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then allow the jug and the water to cool on their own. As with all clay cookware, this product should not be exposed to extreme temperature shock. Rinsing a hot jug under cold water, for instance, may cause it to crack.

South American Heirloom Cacao is used in every Cacoco drinking chocolate for a perfect balance of fruity, floral and nutty notes. All cacao is certified organic from biodynamic farms that support lush ecological diversity, and all farming partners are paid fair trade wages or above. 60% Rich Dark has a deep, concentrated flavor with barely there hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. As with all drinking chocolates, its consistency is velvety and smooth, much thicker and more luscious than typical powdered hot cocoa. This version also contains lucuma, a fruit from South America, which gives the drink a natural, subtle sweetness.

South American Heirloom Cacao is used in every Cacoco drinking chocolate for a perfect balance of fruity, floral and nutty notes. All cacao is Certified Organic from biodynamic farms that support lush ecological diversity and all farming partners are paid fair trade wages or above. 70% Spicy Dark tastes of rich dark chocolate and hints of noticeable yet not overpowering spice on the finish from habanero. As with all drinking chocolates, its consistency is much thicker and luxurious than hot chocolate, velvety and smooth. Even silky.

South American Heirloom Cacao is used in every Cacoco drinking chocolate for a perfect balance of fruity, floral and nutty notes. All cacao is Certified Organic from bio-dynamic farms that support lush, green, ecological diversity and all farming partners are paid Fair Trade wages or above. 65% Mocha Dark combines rich dark chocolate with strong fair-trade coffee for a satisfying flavor that is deep enough for coffee-enthusiasts but sweet enough for any palate. As with all drinking chocolates, its consistency is much thicker and luxurious than hot chocolate, velvety and smooth. Even silky.

Hot chocolate is already a winter mainstay, but these mugs make the experience even better. Verve Culture’s hot chocolate mugs are handmade in Mexico using local clay, traditional tools and classic techniques. Every material was chosen for a reason, from a glaze that helps mitigate condensation to the use of naturally insulating clay that keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold (yes, you can put cold drinks in there too). And as an added bonus, each mug will vary slightly in shape, proportion and glaze to give each a one-of-a-kind feel. Comes in a set of two.