YYC Hot Chocolate Fest!

Boy was it cold out earlier this month! I found it really hard to muster up the strength to want to leave the house everyday so am I ever glad that we’re getting a bit of a break with the chinook lately. Hopefully it keeps up for a bit but seeing that it’s Calgary I’m not going to be surprised when we get hit by our next big chill. Luckily for us, February is also YYC Hot Chocolate Fest!

Celebrating their 6th year, the YYC Hot Chocolate Fest is supporting Calgary Meals on Wheels with proceeds from each of the hot chocolates benefitting their Home Meal Delivery Program. Various cafes, restaurants and chocolatiers are supporting the cause by creating a signature hot chocolate (some even spirited) for the competition. Calgarians are encouraged to try as many hot chocolates as they can and then go online to review each. It is highly encouraged to review all the ones you’ve sampled because the winners will be selected based on the overall rating of the hot chocolate!

I’ve been lucky enough to try a couple and here are my thoughts on them…


Seasons of Bowness - S'mores Twist

An update on the traditional hot chocolate with Smirnoff Marshmallow Vodka. The hints of cinnamon and graham crackers are delicious and playful on the tongue. A warming drink perfect for a cool winter day especially when skating in Bowness Park.



Café Rosso – Marble Coconut

I really enjoyed this creation with both dark and white chocolate mixed together and topped with lots of whipped cream and toasted coconut that they made in house. I preferred it because it wasn’t too sweet and the toasted coconut on top added a nice textural crunch. I could probably have one of these everyday.


Analog – Corbeaux Hot Chocolate

Their version showcased basil and lemon infused in to white chocolate and topped with Corbeaux’s own marshmallows and a white chocolate chip cookie. The basil was definitely interesting, this one would be perfect for those looking for a blend of sweet and savoury. The cookie was a lovely bonus.



The Deane House – Bergamot Sea Salt

Hinted with flavours of sea salt and earl grey tea then topped with roasted marshmallows. This was a delicious combo! The subtle flavour of the tea really added an extra layer of flavour to this hot chocolate. I also enjoyed that it wasn’t cloyingly sweet. The roasted marshmallow on top also reminded me of nights out camping and smores. Amazing!

Even though it has warmed up, now is an even better time to get out there to sample all those delicious hot chocolates for a cause! Grab one and chill or grab one to go! I'm off to sample a couple more myself and will continue to update as I try more! Check back for new reviews. Yum!

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