In an increasingly polarized world full of messy politics and social tensions, one debate stands above all: hot cocoa or apple cider?
As the holiday season slowly approaches, it’s important to understand where people stand on this topic. Though preference for each drink varies depending on the season, members at the School, in almost total accordance, believe hot cocoa is the right answer for winter; according to a poll of 51 people at the School, 79.2% preferred hot cocoa while only 20.8% prefer apple cider.
One of the primary reasons for cocoa’s popularity is the creative freedom it grants to enjoyers. In addition to being just “more of a dairy kind of guy,” Senior Silas Farhang loves hot cocoa for its variation. “There’s just more to it. You can put some marshmallows, whipped cream, a lot of things, but with hot cider, it’s just a one-punch kind of deal,” Farhang commented.
Moreover, hot cocoa brings an inexplicable feel to one’s soul. “It’s just better, it’s more nostalgic,” Junior Nico von Mayrhauser said. Junior Adam Carter added to this sentiment, “I just honestly prefer it and its richer flavor.” Cocoa is especially nice when it’s cold out during winter; Sophomore Hawk Coulston finds it a “well-rounded and comfy drink.”
That said, there are a few brave holdouts in support of apple cider. “I feel like it’s good and sweet.” Sophomore Izzy Kouakou-Zebouah said. Believing that apple cider is more versatile in being lukewarm than hot cocoa, Kouakou-Zeboauh doesn’t like hot drinks as much, so apple cider is a natural choice. When Sophomore Fiona Hogan challenged her stance by emphasizing the cider’s lack of toppings, Kouakou-Zeboauh valiantly defended apple ciders: “You could still put whipped cream on apple cider, it would just taste different.”
Of course, there will always be some middle ground. “I prefer hot cocoa overall, but I’m not against apple cider. Usually, it’s not spiced well, but it’s nice when it is,” Junior Evy Reinhart said. Though hot cocoa may remain a clear favorite for many students at the School, both drinks do hold a special place in the season’s traditions. What matters most during this cozy time is that we gather around and share these delights together.
Personally, I believe that to determine which one is better, you have to consider the time and season that each drink applies to. For example, in the fall, most people would stick to apple cider due to it being a classic. However, during winter, many would prefer hot cocoa for its sweet taste. Another aspect the split could depend on is what meal you’re having with your drink. For example, Apple Cider fits with meals like a fast food lunch, or also with something sweet if you’re aiming for a dessert feeling. Many people would want Apple Cider more than hot Cocoa in this situation. Whilst hot cocoa is more of an independent beverage to drink with maybe a cookie, Apple Cider goes with a wider variety of food. In general, it tends to depend on the season and on what food you’re having it with. When the School community was asked their opinions, though, this idea was challenged. The results showed 79.2% of people preferring Hot Cocoa and 20.8% preferring apple cider. This displays that in our community, there actually isn’t that much controversy around this topic. During this holiday season, most people seem to like hot cocoa over apple cider. The results clearly show that if a group or event were to decide on which beverage to offer, Hot Cocoa would be the choice. On top of that, the high percentage difference highlights how strongly people feel about their beverage preferences during colder months. Overall, this poll demonstrates a clear victory for Hot Cocoa and how it remains a favorite over Apple Cider.