When there’s snow on the ground and a chill in the air, few things hit the spot like a rich and creamy hot cocoa. Sweet and indulgent, this drink is as versatile as it is delicious. Some like to spice it up with cinnamon or even chili pepper. Others sweeten the deal with flavors like toasted marshmallow, raspberry, or caramel. Whatever your taste preferences, there’s no denying the comfort that comes from sipping something warm and sweet in the cold winter months.
Delaware is home to many independent cafes and bakeries—which means countless options for a hot chocolate stop! Here are a few hotspots to try.
Scout Café
Along with regular hot chocolate, Wilmington’s Scout Cafe serves a Unicorn Hot Cocoa with rainbow marshmallows. This is the perfect option for kids or adults with a sweet tooth! Plus, grab a Hell’s Belles croissant from the pastry case for the perfect dippable treat.
2316 Baynard Boulevard, Wilmington
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Corner Grounds Cafe
Along with pastries, Instagram-worthy coffee flights, and seasonal specialty flavors, Corner Grounds serves up a great hot chocolate.
102 North 5th Street, Odessa
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Martha’s Ice Cream
If you’re craving Mexican hot chocolate—typically less sweet and a little spicy—this Middletown ice cream and sweets shop is the perfect place. A family-owned storefront specializing in Mexican-inspired ice cream and frozen treats, Martha’s can also provide a warm and comforting cup of cocoa on cold days.
873 North Broad Street, Middletown
Brew HaHa
Brew HaHa locations throughout New Castle County serve up warm, rich, and delightful hot cocoa. Try elevating your hot chocolate by adding a flavor like raspberry, hazelnut, or caramel for an extra-indulgent treat.
Multiple Locations
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Rise Up Coffee
For hot chocolate in Rehoboth Beach, stop by Rise Up Coffee Co. Rich and indulgent, this hot cocoa contains steamed milk, rich dark chocolate, and a touch of vanilla.
502 Rehoboth Avenue
The House of Coffi
For those in Dover, The House of Coffi serves hot cocoa along with an extensive menu of specialty coffee and lattes.
14 East Loockerman Street, Dover
kaffé KARMA
Along with loose-leaf teas, blue matcha, and other coffee alternatives, kaffe KARMA makes a mean hot cocoa that is sweet, indulgent, and perfectly satisfying.
342 Buckley Mill Road, Greenville
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Sleeping Bird Coffee
For those with a major sweet tooth, a stop into Sleeping Bird Coffee means you can pair your cocoa with one of the cafe’s renowned cinnamon buns.
3111 Miller Road, Wilmington
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Cafeneo
This Greek fusion cafe offers both iced and hot chocolate. Make it your own with flavor additions like maple spice or toasted marshmallow. Pair it with one of the cafe’s popular Greek-inspired pastries like baklava, apple coffee cake, kataifi, and more.
139 South Main Street, Newark