1. Experiment with peppermint hot cocoa.

Try adding peppermint extract to your hot cocoa and topping it with whipped cream and crushed candy cane pieces. This combination is "mint" to be!

2. Try some extra chocolatey hot chocolate.

For an extra chocolatey kick, add a few tablespoons of chocolate chips to your hot cocoa. Whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and serve. Not only will this add to the flavor of the cocoa, but it will also make your drink a little thicker and creamier since the chocolate will thicken the beverage.

3. Sip some cinnamon hot cocoa.

Adding cinnamon will give your cocoa a festive flair. Think of a chocolate gingerbread vibes. Experiment with other spices, too! A touch of chili powder along with cinnamon will give you Mexican hot chocolate flavors, whereas nutmeg will give you even more of a festive mug!

4. Go crazy with the toppings!

Marshmallows and whipped cream are a good start, but trying thinking outside the box so that as soon as your lips touch your mug, you can taste joy. Try salted caramel, chocolate drizzle, toffee bits, or M&Ms. Coat the rim of your mug with melted chocolate, and roll it in your favorite candies.

5. Give hot cocoa bombs a try.

These are super fun, and they've blown up this year (no pun intended). It's a hollow ball of chocolate, typically filled with hot cocoa mix and mini marshmallows. Learn how to make your own here, or learn where to buy them here.