This simple, 4-ingredient marshmallow topper for hot cocoa is a delightful holiday treat. Kids and adults alike will love the colorful, festive touch it adds to a mug—or you can enjoy them on their own.
I’m a big fan of hot chocolate all winter long, and nothing makes a cup of cocoa more cheerful than marshmallows on top. If you don’t have the time or inclination to make homemade marshmallows, but want something more special than standard mini marshmallows, these Christmas tree marshmallow toppers are an easy, eye-catching option. They come together quickly and use just a few pantry-friendly ingredients.
Easy Hot Chocolate Station
Tip: These toppers are perfect for a hot chocolate station. Store finished toppers in an airtight jar or container in a cool, dry place and they will stay good for several weeks—making them a great make-ahead garnish for parties or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients for the Christmas Tree Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Toppers
- 12 Kraft Jet-Puffed S’moremallows (or another sturdy large marshmallow)
- 12 oz package of Wilton light blue candy melts (or any candy coating color you prefer)
- White snowflake sprinkles
- 12 Christmas tree icing decorations (or similar flat sugar decorations)
Directions to Make the Christmas Tree Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Toppers
1. Prepare a work surface by lining a large baking sheet with wax paper or parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Place the candy melts into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the candy is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat—stirring well helps ensure even melting.
3. Using a small spoon or offset spatula, gently spread a layer of the melted candy onto the top of each marshmallow, leaving a little white marshmallow visible at the bottom so it still looks like a tree topper rather than fully coated.
4. While the coating is still wet, press a Christmas tree icing decoration gently into the candy on top of each marshmallow.
5. Sprinkle a few white snowflake sprinkles around the tree for a snowy look. Work quickly so the sprinkles adhere while the candy coating is still tacky.
6. Repeat until all marshmallows are decorated. Allow them to sit on the wax paper until the candy coating fully sets—this usually takes 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
7. Serve the marshmallow toppers on their own as a sweet snack, or float one or two on a mug of hot cocoa for a festive touch.
Storage, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Storage: Keep finished toppers in a sealed container at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid humid environments to prevent the sprinkles and candy coating from becoming sticky. Properly stored, they should remain fresh for several weeks.
Variations: Customize colors and decorations to match any theme—use green candy melts for a classic tree look or red and gold for a more traditional palette. Swap the tree icing for other shapes like stars, snowmen, or simple edible pearls. You can also drizzle contrasting candy melts over the top for added detail.
Serving ideas: These toppers are ideal for a hot chocolate bar, holiday party favors, or as a sweet addition to a gift basket. Place a topper on a spoon or skewer to stir and melt it into hot milk for a creamy, decorative cocoa topping.
About This Recipe
Prep time: about 15 minutes. Total time: about 15 minutes. Makes 12 toppers. Course: Dessert. Cuisine: American.
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