Warm up with this delicious bourbon-spiked hot chocolate! It’s rich, creamy, and adds a fun kick to your cozy night in. Perfect for chilly evenings and holiday gatherings!
Who can resist a rich hot chocolate that warms you up from the inside out? I love to top mine with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for that extra special touch. 🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: I recommend whole milk for a creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a lighter option, almond milk or oat milk can work great too!
Dark Chocolate: Use chocolate with 60-70% cocoa for the best richness. If you want a sweeter chocolate, opt for semi-sweet chips, or try out white chocolate for a different flavor!
Bourbon: Any bourbon will do! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply skip the bourbon and add a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
Mini Marshmallows: They add a fun touch! For a healthier option, try using whipped cream or toasted coconut on top instead.
How Do You Make the Smoothest Hot Chocolate?
The key to silky smooth hot chocolate is in the melting process. Start by heating the milk and cream slowly to avoid scorching. Here’s how:
- Heat milk and cream to warm, not boiling—this keeps it from curdling.
- Whisk in the dry ingredients (cocoa and sugar) until fully combined for a seamless blend.
- Add the dark chocolate gradually. Stir continuously until it’s melted to achieve that rich consistency.
- Finish with vanilla and bourbon off the heat to preserve their flavors.
Enjoying this hot chocolate is all about the textures and flavors. Don’t rush through the steps, and it’ll be worth every sip!
How to Make Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Chocolate Mixture:
- 4 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), chopped
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Boozy Kick:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
For the Toppings:
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish
- Caramel or chocolate syrup, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes heating and mixing your ingredients, followed by a quick assembly to serve. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Milk and Cream:
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Place it over medium heat and warm the mixture gently, making sure it does not come to a boil. You just want it hot enough to melt the chocolate!
2. Mixing in the Cocoa and Sugar:
Once the milk is warm, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar. If you’re using, add in the ground cinnamon too! Stir until everything is fully dissolved and the mixture is nice and smooth.
3. Melting the Chocolate:
Add the chopped dark chocolate to the heated milk mixture. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the hot chocolate is rich and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps!
4. Adding Flavor:
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon whiskey. This will give your hot chocolate that delightful kick!
5. Pouring into Mugs:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Fill them up generously, as this is going to be a treat!
6. Topping It Off:
Now for the fun part! Top your hot chocolate with a generous amount of mini marshmallows. Then, for an elegant touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top.
7. Adding the Drizzle:
If you want to take it over the top, drizzle some caramel or chocolate syrup on your hot chocolate. This adds a sweet finish that’s hard to resist!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your bourbon spiked hot chocolate is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor every sip of this cozy drink, perfect for those chilly evenings!
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol?
Absolutely! If bourbon isn’t your favorite, you can try using rum or whiskey for a different flavor. Just remember that the taste will change slightly depending on the spirit you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the hot chocolate base (without the bourbon) in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stove and stir in the bourbon just before serving.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk?
Yes, non-dairy milk options like almond, oat, or coconut milk work well in this recipe. Just choose one that you enjoy drinking, and adjust the sweetness as needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving!