Originally enjoyed by the Aztecs, hot chocolate has a long history of warming up hands and hearts when cold weather sets in. The drink has seen many different incarnations over the years, from the widely relished addition of peppermint flavouring to the recently popular hot chili rendition. Below, I explore some new takes on a winter classic, test-driving novel ways to enjoy the traditional hot chocolate.

Disclaimer: these recipes are intended to be indulgent. Using whole milk, heavy cream and real chocolate, this is a far caloric-cry from your usual half-sweet, non-fat, no-whip. Trust me on this one, it’s worth every sip.

Milk chocolate and peanut butter hot chocolate (serves two)

It’s like drinking a Reese’s peanut butter cup. Nuff said.

What you’ll need:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 4 ounces milk chocolate, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

Warm the milk and cream in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent burning. Don’t let it boil. Add chocolate and whisk until melted and fully combined. Continue to warm the mixture until thickened, about five minutes. Whisk in peanut butter until smooth. Serve immediately. Top with whipped cream if desired.

Rum and coconut white hot chocolate (serves two)

Perfectly sweet and oh-so-creamy, the addition of coconut milk makes this white hot feel a little exotic. And no, it’s never too early in the day for a boozy treat.

What you’ll need:

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

• 2 tbsp rum (Malibu works beautifully)

• 2 pinches sweetened shredded coconut

Warm the milk, coconut milk and cream in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add chocolate and whisk until melted and fully combined. Continue to warm mixture until thickened, about five minutes. Whisk in rum. Serve and top with a pinch of sweetened shredded coconut. For a stronger coconut flavour, add half a teaspoon of coconut extract (or more Malibu rum). To make the drink virgin for young’uns, substitute some rum extract for the rum.

Salted caramel hot chocolate (serves two)

Starbucks has nothing on this one. With the perfect balance of salty and sweet, the salted caramel hot chocolate is a crowd favourite. Best enjoyed with a slathering of whipped cream, don’t be afraid to go all out.

What you’ll need:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

• 4 ounces caramel chocolate (Caramilk works well), chopped (about 3/4 cup)

• 1 tsp plus 2 pinches sea salt

• whipped cream

• caramel sauce

Warm the milk and cream in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add chocolate and whisk until melted and fully combined. Continue to warm the mixture until thickened, about five minutes. Stir in teaspoon of sea salt. Serve and top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt.

Cinnamon & spice hot chocolate (serves two)

Rich, earthy, and not overly sweet, the cinnamon & spice is perfect for those looking for something a little out of the ordinary.

What you’ll need:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp each of cinnamon, ground cloves, cardamom, ground coriander, nutmeg, and crushed chili flakes

Warm the milk and cream in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add chocolate and whisk until melted and fully combined. Continue to warm the mixture until thickened, about five minutes. Whisk in spices and serve. Top with a small pinch of cinnamon.

Nutella hot chocolate (serves two)

Much like its peanut butter cousin, this hot chocolate is so easy, it feels like a no-brainer. Deliciously simple. Simply delicious.

What you’ll need:

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 4 ounces milk chocolate, chopped (about ¾ cup)

• 1/4 cup Nutella hazelnut spread

Warm the milk and cream in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent burning. Don’t let it boil. Add chocolate and whisk until melted and fully combined. Continue to the warm mixture until thickened, about five minutes. Whisk in Nutella until smooth. Serve immediately. Adding marshmallows makes this an extra creamy treat.