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If handing out traditional Valentine’s Day treats or cards this year seems sort of ho hum, why not try something a little different. I saw these adorable Hot Chocolate Cones a while back at Family Fun, and with a little green know-how you can transform the traditional ingredients into eco-friendly ingredients which makes this a green treat to give to friends and family. I also think it’s a perfect favor idea for an eco-friendly Valentine’s Day party.
Hot Chocolate Cones!
Gather up the following for each cone you want to make…
- 3/4 cup organic Fair Trade hot cocoa mix
- 1/4 cup mini Fair Trade chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup mini vegan marshmallows
- Family Fun suggests you use 1 large natural red gumdrop for the cherry topper – Now, organic or natural red gumdrops are impossible to find, but since it’s Valentine’s Day you could use adorable vegan Raspberry Red Licorice Hearts or organic and vegan red Gummy Swirls, which look like pretty little cherry jewels.
Packaging:
The Family Fun packaging is as follows; 2 (6- by 12-inch) cone-shaped cellophane bags (available at party stores); 2 clear rubber bands (we used ponytail holders). However, you can green it up a bit.
For the paper cone you can gather some 100% recycled paper and form cones with it and for the packaging get some 100% biodegradable cellophane baggies. As for the rubber bands, your footprint is small here, so go with those if you like, or simply tie the ends with a bit of hemp or strong natural fiber ribbon.
To make your cones:
- Pour the cocoa mix into one of the bags. Close the bag with a clear rubber band, then trim the end of the bag 1 inch above the band.
- Place the cocoa-filled bag into the second bag and flatten its top so the end doesn’t stick up.
- Layer the chocolate chips and the marshmallows, then top with the gumdrop. Secure the bag with the other rubber band.
Now you have some eco-friendly cones to hand out for Valentine’s Day. It’s easy to turn almost any family craft you find into a more eco-friendly version if you just consider your options and use your imagination.
[image of cone via Family Fun]
Hey now, hot chocolate is good for you in moderation! Although yeah, if you’re watching your sweet intake the chocolate chips are overkill. Kids will like it though :)
This is a very cute idea, but you’re evil for making me think to put chocolate chips in my hot cocoa! It’s bad enough already :)
I think they were meant as a Christmas craft, but when I saw them last year I thought they’d make a better Valentine. I like Family Fun, but they rarely have eco-specific stuff, so I’m always thinking, “How can I alternate this?”
I made these a couple years ago for a kids party at Christmas time. They were a huge hit! I didn’t think about using them for Valentine’s Day!