Today’s Wonder of the Day was inspired by Ronan. Ronan Wonders, “Why is hot chocolate associated with Christmas?” Thanks for WONDERing with us, Ronan!
Brrr! Can you feel that chill in the air? Better bundle up tight before you head outside to play. After sledding for a while, you might feel the need to come back inside and warm up. When you do, you may want to start warming up from the inside out!
Some of the best winter treats are the things that warm our tummies. Do you have a favorite warm winter treat that helps you fight off the cold winter air?
One of the most popular wintertime tummy-warmers is, of course, hot chocolate. Sometimes called hot cocoa, hot chocolate can be made many different ways. The chocolate itself is usually shaved chocolate, melted chocolate, or cocoa powder.
The liquid base of hot chocolate is usually either hot water or steamed milk. Combine the liquid with the chocolate and throw in some sugar and maybe some marshmallows and you've got yourself a steaming hot cup of cocoa!
Hot chocolate has been around quite a while. Historians believe the Mayan people probably created the first chocolate drink over 2,000 years ago. Since that time, it's become a worldwide favorite with unique variations in many different countries.
Today, hot chocolate can be made easily with packets of powdered cocoa. All you need to do is simply add hot water. Gourmet versions of hot chocolate can be bought at stores or made at home with chocolate bars, marshmallows, and whipped cream.
Another popular winter drink is hot apple cider. Hot apple cider is apple juice that has been heated and flavored with additional ingredients, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, or clove. Have you ever tried hot apple cider on a cold winter day? It'll warm your tummy in a hurry!
If it's close to the holidays, you might also want to try a hot glass of eggnog. Made with milk or cream, sugar, and beaten eggs, eggnog has a frothy texture that many people look forward to every winter.
Like apple cider, eggnog is often flavored with a dash of nutmeg, cinnamon, or vanilla. Eggnog can be made at home or purchased in stores around the holidays. Some people use eggnog as a special flavoring in coffee and tea during the winter months.
Traditional eggnog can be high in fat and cholesterol. However, low-fat and low-sugar versions can now often be found in stores. Some manufacturers also offer eggnog made with soy, rice, or coconut milk for vegans and people with dairy allergies.