Hot cocoa bars are a lot of fun and perfect for the winter weather. They can be used at a gathering of friends, a baby shower, wedding, or even a graduation. I was able to make a hot chocolate bar without buying any extra items. To start, decide where you will setup the cocoa station. You can pick a spot on your kitchen counter or put up a folding table with a decorative tablecloth. Use this free  printable hot chocolate bar sign and place it in an 8x10 frame. You can get a cheap frame at the dollar store and save it for future stations and parties.

The Hot Chocolate

For hot chocolate you can use individual packets for an easy setup if you only have a few people. Couple that with an electric hot water kettle to get instant hot cocoa. If you’ll be having a bigger crowd you can make your own hot cocoa recipe in a slow cooker.

Display Containers

Start by looking around your house for containers or platters. These can be glass jars, mason jars, fancy cups, or serving plates. The glass jars are ones I was already using for pantry storage. You can vary the containers with what you have. But by keeping them matching it makes it look cohesive and organized. Simply turn them around (so any current labels don't show) and place  removable labels on the front to make matching hot cocoa decor. Or instead of labels print out free printable paper tags (page 1, page 2), punch a small hole through the top, and tie it on your jar with decorative twine. Why use labels when people can already tell what the hot cocoa toppings are? Because they are an easy and cheap way add to the decor and help tie everything together.

Toppings and Dipping Treat Ideas

• Caramel
• Vanilla Syrup
• Chocolate Syrup
• Hazelnut Creamer
• Cinnamon
• Sea Salt
• Toffee Bits
• Sprinkles
• Marshmallows
• Peanut Butter Cups
• Chocolate Chips
• Dark Chocolate Chips
• White Chocolate Chips
• Butterscotch
• Coconut
• Truffles
• Kisses (and in various flavors)
• Peppermints
• Cookies
• Candy
• Pirouettes
• Malted Milk Balls
• Candy Canes

Add height both for visual affect and to make the hot chocolate toppings easier to see. I had a glass cake/chips display and the bottom half was perfect for this. Other items that would work: shelves, a tiered cupcake display ( or make your own), or risers made from wood.

Then all you need are some small spoons or scoops, and basic party items like cups, napkins, paper straws, and spoons. Store straws and spoons in one of the cups or use a decorative cup. 

To add a little extra decor set out a vase and fake flowers. These are also items I had but you can find cheap options at the dollar store. Then use stickers or a marker so people can label which cup is theirs.

It's completely possible to have a nice hot chocolate bar without spend a lot of money. All it takes is a little creativity. $2 for hot cocoa and $1 for the cups. Total cost: $3 for 8 servings.