In Utah, hot chocolate season starts in September and doesn’t end until the daffodils bloom. Next to dirty Dr. Pepper, hot chocolate could be the state beverage.

Thanks to its popularity, gourmet hot chocolate is easy to find in local shops that offer myriad recipes for the chocolate gourmand. Here are some spots to get you through the winter months. 

Sir Walter Candy Co., 3828 S. Main Street, South Salt Lake

This candy store is a chocolate-lover’s dream. The family-operated business features hand-dipped chocolates, popcorns, brittles and more, but its Frozen Hot Chocolate offers a unique flavor and crunchy chocolate shell. 

Customers choose between Belgian milk, dark or white chocolate, which is run through a slushie machine. Then they select a flavor of chocolate to line the cup. The chocolate slushie is poured into the cup, which freezes the chocolate lining. Once broken up, the chocolate adds a nice crunch.

Sir Walter Candy Co. Frozen Hot Chocolate is popular year-round. For traditionalists, a regular hot chocolate is available, made with melted Belgian chocolate. Visit SirWalterCandy.com for more information. 

“You come here for the experience because it’s more than just a treat,” said Amir Porras, son of the founders and vice president of the Sir Walter Candy Co. “There’s a nostalgic feel, like if your grandma made candy during the holidays. It’s a great place to come and have a good treat.”

The Black Bow Hot Cocoa overflows with thick chocolate, made-from-scratch whipped cream and sprinkles. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)

Black Bow Chocolates, 13 W. Center Street, Kaysville

Jessica Sunderland’s award-winning chocolates are the first reason to stop by this cozy shop in Davis County. With recipes handed down from her grandmother, Sunderland creates hand-dipped chocolates in flavors like coconut cream and cherry cordial. But the Black Bow Hot Cocoa is a treat you don’t want to miss.

“We use the best cocoa and dipping chocolate, plus the finest cream, sugar and milk,” she said. “I would say our hot chocolate is somewhere between sipping chocolate and a normal hot chocolate.”

Customers can add flavors to their hot cocoa for a personalized taste and finish it off with made-from-scratch cream flavored with Mexican vanilla. The shop also offers a non-coffee drink, a Choffy, made from brewed cacao beans. To learn more, visit BlackBowChocolates.com. 

Hatch Family Chocolates, 376 E. 8th Ave., Salt Lake City

The Decadent Hot Chocolate at Hatch Family Chocolates is reminiscent of sitting in an outdoor European cafe. With a taste described as “drinking melted chocolate,” the signature beverage is made to be enjoyed slowly.

The drink is mixed with either milk or dark chocolate (or a combination of the two), combined with steamed milk (dairy, almond, coconut, oat or soy) and topped with house-made whipped cream. 

Hatch Family Chocolates is a local favorite, specializing in hand-dipped chocolates, hot fudge, toffee and more. For information, visit HatchFamilyChocolates.com. 

Sacred Energy Crystals Coffee & Cafe, 296 E. 4500 South, Murray

If you like your hot chocolate accompanied by crystals and tarot cards, Sacred Energy is a must-stop shop. The cafe’s Fairy Hot Chocolate comes with luscious chocolate, whipped cream and glitter.

“Our hot cocoa is not just hot cocoa,” said Janet Wall, Sacred Energy owner. “We make it with a rich chocolate syrup, no powders, and a sprinkling of pink and lavender glitter for a magical experience. It’s so delicious and creamy.”

Sacred Energy’s heated patio is the perfect place to enjoy a hot chocolate as the temperatures drop or sip a Divine Decadence Latte (with white chocolate and pistachio) and wander the store that features crystals in all sizes and colors. To see Sacred Energy’s menu, visit SacredEnergySLC.com

Tulie Bakery, 1510 S. 1500 East and 863 E. 700 South, Salt Lake City

Hot chocolate and pastries go hand-in-hand at Tulie Bakery, featuring classic items made with high-quality ingredients. 

After a day of shopping or skiing, a cup of hot chocolate is a rich reminder to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Steamed and frothed milk is whisked into a cup of melted chocolate and topped with cream and chocolate shavings. The result is a delicious confection that calls for a fireplace and a good book.

The bakery has gained popularity as customers are drawn to its modest storefront and delicious bakery items (including gluten-free options). Tulie Bakery serves sustainably-sourced coffee, sandwiches, breakfast items, cakes and cookies. Visit TulieBakery.com to learn more.