- Eat & Drink
Seven dreamy hot chocolate stops to try this winter
There’s something about a hot chocolate that feels instantly comforting. Whether it’s a classic mug enjoyed after a winter walk or a rich indulgent treat topped with whipped cream and marshmallows, Hot Chocolate Day on 31 January is the perfect excuse to savour something sweet.
Across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, independent cafés and chocolatiers are serving up hot chocolate's worth seeking out, each with their own twist on this much-loved winter warmer.
Here are seven delicious hot chocolate stops to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Cookie Cult
While Cookie Cult in Aberdeen's West End is best known for its loaded, freshly baked cookies, their rich, creamy hot chocolate has become a fan favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Keep an eye on their Instagram to keep up to date with special flavours and creations such as banoffee pie or cherry bakewell!
Why not bring the dog along for a puppucino too?
Image credit: Cookie Cult / Instagram
Forest Café, Midmar
Based at Treehouse in Midmar, Forest café is a delicious spot serving a variety of comforting food.
Their hot chocolate is a classic favourite, paired perfectly with marshmallows, cream and a stroll through the Treehouse home store.
Image credit: Forest Cafe
Kava Street Coffee
Tucked along Aberdeen Beach Promenade, Kava Street Coffee is a food truck favourite for warming up after a winter stroll.
Their rich hot chocolates, crafted with quality chocolate and perfectly steamed milk, are ideal on crisp days. Enjoy your hot chocolate paired with a beautiful sea view.
Image credit: @tartanpaws_ / Instagram
The Dreamy Goat, Inverurie
A much-loved stop in Inverurie, The Dreamy Goat is known for its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted drinks. Their hot chocolate is rich, comforting and perfect for warming up on colder days, whether you’re popping in for a quick takeaway or settling in with a sweet treat.
This spot is also fully Dog friendly, making it the perfect spot for the whole gang!
The Chocolate Bar, Ellon
A firm favourite in Ellon, The Chocolate Bar is a cosy stop for a rich, comforting hot chocolate made with quality chocolate.
It’s an ideal place to warm up after exploring the town or nearby riverside walks, with plenty of tempting treats to enjoy alongside your drink
Image credit: The Chocolate Bar
Fable
Nestled on Huntly Street, Fable is a local favourite known for its welcoming vibe, artisan coffee and carefully crafted hot chocolate.
Served with attention to detail and often paired with house-baked pastries or seasonal treats, their hot chocolate is a comforting choice on chilly days.
Image credit: Fable
The Highlanders Bakehouse, Ballater
A favourite in Ballater, The Highlanders Bakehouse is known for its hearty bakes and cosy village setting. Their hot chocolate is made with proper Callebaut chocolate drops, topped with toasted marshmallow and a cup of whipped cream, perfect for warming up after a winter walk or exploring the surrounding mountains.
It’s a truly indulgent treat for anyone looking to embrace the season in style.
Discover More Food & Drink Across the North-east
From cosy cafés to indulgent sweet treats, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are full of places to warm up this winter. Explore more local food and drink inspiration on our Eat & Drink page and find your next favourite spot.