Christmas Hot Chocolate Pucks

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I love simple holiday treats that feel special but don’t take hours. These Christmas Hot Chocolate Pucks are no-bake, make-ahead little discs of chocolate that dissolve in hot milk to make a cozy mug of hot chocolate. They’re perfect for gift boxes, last-minute party favors, or a quick warm-up after a chilly day.

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Ingredients for Christmas Hot Chocolate Pucks

These brilliantly simple little treats come together with just a few ingredients in no time. Here’s what you need:

3 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/3 cup crushed candy canes or crushed peppermint candy (optional, for topping)
muffin tin and liners (about 12)

How to Make Christmas Hot Chocolate Pucks

1. Prep: Place cupcake liners in a tin. Crush candy canes.

2. Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.

3. Mix in dry ingredients: Whisk in cocoa powder and powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

4. Fill molds: Spoon the chocolate mixture into each cavity (about 2 tablespoons per puck). Tap the mold gently to remove air bubbles.

5. Add toppings: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each puck while the chocolate is still warm so they stick.

6. Chill: Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until fully set.

7. Store: Pop the pucks out of the mold and layer them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one month.

How to Use

Heat 8-10 ounces (1 cup) of milk until hot but not boiling. Drop in one hot chocolate puck and whisk or stir until melted and smooth. Adjust milk amount or use 1.5 pucks for extra-rich hot chocolate.

Pro Tips

Use good quality chocolate chips for the smoothest melt and best flavor. Semi-sweet is classic, milk chocolate is sweeter, and dark chocolate gives a richer drink.
Keep mug size in mind. Most regular mugs are made to hold about 12 ounces of liquid. You definitely can dissolve these in 12 ounces of milk (I even tested it!) and they will come out fine. However, if you want that rich and cozy chocolate flavor go for around 10 ounces of milk. For a really chocolatey flavor, only go with 8. You can always add more milk, too!
Add flavor variations: swap candy canes for mini marshmallows, caramel or anything you like.
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant milk of your choice.
Package them in cellophane bags with a ribbon and a note that says “Melt in 1 cup hot milk” for quick edible gifts.

FAQs

How many pucks does this recipe make?

About 10–12 standard pucks depending on mold size. Each puck is designed for 8-10 ounces (1 cup) hot milk.

Can I freeze the pucks?

Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw briefly before serving.

Can I use these with water instead of hot milk?

You can, but I wouldn’t recommend it. These were definitely made to be dissolved in milk and water might make your hot chocolate taste, well… watery. If you don’t want to use all milk, you can try half water and half milk. I did that for one of my pucks to experiment and it wasn’t bad, but I definitely prefer all milk.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

You can use a neutral oil like vegetable oil too. Adding a bit of oil is what makes the chocolate melt smoothly in the microwave, rather than having to use a double boiler.

These Christmas Hot Chocolate Pucks are a fast, pretty, and practical holiday treat. They’re no-bake, customizable, and make great party favors! I like to keep a jar in the fridge during December for cozy weeknight drinks and last-minute hostess gifts.