Merry Christmas and Hot Chocolate Bombs (that bombed)!

Ho Ho ho!

This 2020 Christmas message almost didn't make it. I have to admit that I needed to take some time away from my laptop.  Anyone else feel like they need a break between 2020 and 2021?  It took me a while before I could start writing in my 2021 planner and I'm looking forward to shutting down my screens for a short time. 

But there was a bomb that I wasn't expecting... a final curveball.
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A small thing compared with what many of you have been through in 2020. I do feel for all of you who have been dealt a final curve ball which has meant not spending time with loved ones over Christmas. I'm so sorry that this year has been full of curveballs and uncertainty. 

I wanted to share a little sweet treat  (especially those who are still reading your emails so close to Christmas).  

Hot Chocolate Bombs
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Ingredients:
Dark and white cooking chocolate blocks.
Hot cocoa powder (hot chocolate)
Christmas sweet decorations (mini marshmallows, M & Ms).

Method:

• Melt a block of dark chocolate in the microwave. Use bursts of 30 seconds at medium heat and stir. (Check that you don't overheat the chocolate as melting times will vary between microwaves.  Usually heat until the chocolate still looks like block pieces but when you stir, it combines without lumps.  Make sure bowl and spoon are dry). 
• Spoon small amounts of chocolate into round silicon moulds and spread to coat mould. (I used cake pop moulds that I had on hand.  Others have used Easter Egg moulds).  
• Place in the refrigerator until set. 
• Once set, remove the shell from the silicon mould.  Fill one half with cocoa powder and mini marshmallows.
• Heat a small plate in the microwave (30 seconds works for me). 
• Place an empty shell onto the plate to gently melt the "circle" part.  Place this on top of the shell with cocoa/marshmallows.  Gently press and you can use your finger to spread the slightly melted chocolate to help the seal. Place finished "bomb" in a clean bowl. 
• Repeat until all shells are filled.  You may need to reheat your small plate a few times. 
• Place filled "bombs" in your refrigerator until set again. 
• Heat some white chocolate (50g is enough as it is just for decoration) in the microwave.  Allow to cool slightly before drizzling over the filled "bombs".  Top each bomb with sprinkles or an M & M.  Place in the refrigerator until ready to use!

To use these "Hot Chocolate Bombs"... heat up some milk and drop them into the cup.  Watch them melt and give them a final stir. Drink!

Some tips:
* Don't add Bailey's Irish Cream to the chocolate once it has been heated into the microwave. Hot and cold liquids together are not a good idea.  Add a small splash of Baileys prior to placing the chocolate in the microwave for a "boozy" Hot Chocolate!
* Don't try to film your process whilst balancing a tripod and having sticky chocolate fingers.  Your camera may fall and break... (ouch - this was my "bomb").  Even though I have the footage, I couldn't face my camera and take it out to edit ..... so, go to  DO IT ON A DIME who inspired me to make these. 
* If making this with your family - allow for all the refrigerator "setting time".  It is a bit fiddly and it is a lot quicker to put hot cocoa/chocolate straight into the cup ... but it is a little festive frivolity that some of you will enjoy. 

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas! Keep healthy and safe! 

Thank you for your ongoing support! 
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Cindy is a registered occupational therapist practising in Sydney, Australia.  She has two growing children who are a constant source of inspiration and learning.  Cindy loves working creatively to help children to reach their potential, finding opportunities in everyday living and making learning fun. She is also addicted to making printables (even when they take a long time to complete).  Cindy is the author of the Occupational Therapy blog Your Kids OT.  Read more articles from Your Kids OT at https://www.yourkidsot.com/blog

Cindy is a member of the Functional Skills for Kids Therapy Team.  They have together published THE HANDWRITING BOOK, THE SCISSORS SKILLS BOOK and THE TOILETING BOOK.

​The information on this site is general in nature. The activities are safe for most children, however, you should consult an Occupational Therapist or health professional to address specific movement, sensory or other medical conditions. Affiliate links are used throughout this website to promote recommended products. Your Kids OT receives a small commission if any purchases are made through these links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details. ​​​
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