Trail Chef: The Perfect Apres Ski Drink
Warm up after a day of shredding with a homemade hot cocoa.
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The snow is finally coming to the high country out here in Colorado, and brahs everywhere are uttering those musical words: “It’s dumpin’!” My holiday wish to you is that you get a few hours to lose yourself in snowy joy before Grandpa shows up in a Santa hat and the carolers make their rounds—and that you toast your killer day on the slopes with some yummy hot cocoa.
But don’t think that you have to stay in-bounds to kick back with a post-ski mug of chocolaty warmth. Backcountry skiers can savor a sip ‘round the campfire, too, with this recipe.
Apres Ski Cocoa
Recipe adapted from FamilyFun.go.com. Makes 4 cups mix.
2 cups nonfat dry milk powder
¾ cup sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa
½ cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup powdered nondairy creamer
At home
Place all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until blended. Pack desired amount in zip-top bags.
In camp/On the slopes
Place three or four spoonfuls of mix into a mug. Add boiling water, stir, and enjoy.
Of course, you eagle-eyed adult readers might have noticed the omission of a key ingredient. I’ve been known to add a dash or two of Bailey’s to my mug on occasion. What’s your favorite spike for a holiday cocoa? Whiskey? Rum? Tell us in the comments section below!
–Elisabeth Kwak-Hefferan
Image credit: vuorikari