Eggnog Hot Chocolate is a cozy drink that mixes creamy eggnog with rich hot chocolate. It’s perfect for chilly nights and has a sprinkle of nutmeg to give it that festive feel!
Whenever the weather turns cold, this is my go-to drink. Just heat up some eggnog and cocoa together, and you’re all set! Plus, it’s a great way to sip on the holidays. 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: The star of this drink! You can use store-bought eggnog for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade eggnog is delicious too! For a lighter option, choose low-fat or dairy-free eggnog.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is best for this recipe. If you want a sweeter drink, you can try using chocolate syrup instead, but it may change the consistency a bit.
Sugar: Adjusting sugar helps you control sweetness. For a healthier twist, use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
Ground Cinnamon: It adds warmth to the drink. If you love spices, add a bit of ginger or allspice for extra flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Eggnog Hot Chocolate?
Creating the perfect Eggnog Hot Chocolate is all about the right technique. Here are some tips for making your drink delicious:
- Whisk the ingredients well to ensure the cocoa powder dissolves completely. This adds a smooth texture.
- Heat gently over medium heat without boiling. Boiling can curdle the eggnog, so keep an eye on it!
- When adding vanilla extract, stir it in off the heat to enhance the flavor without losing its aroma.
- For a show-stopping presentation, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. A cinnamon stick adds a nice touch too!
These small details can help you create a cozy and comforting drink that everyone will love!
Eggnog Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups eggnog
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground nutmeg, for garnish
- Cinnamon stick, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy Eggnog Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. Grab your ingredients, and let’s warm up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a medium saucepan. Pour in the 2 cups of eggnog, then add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want to make sure the cocoa powder is completely dissolved!
2. Heat the Mixture:
Now, place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Stir the mixture frequently as it heats up. You want to warm it until it’s hot but not boiling—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be patient! Keeping an eye on it will prevent the eggnog from curdling.
3. Add Vanilla for Flavor:
Once the hot chocolate is warmed through, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely flavor boost. Just give it a good stir so it’s well mixed.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Now comes the fun part! Top each mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Then, sprinkle some ground nutmeg over the top for that festive touch. If you like, you can even add a cinnamon stick for extra flavor and decoration!
5. Enjoy Your Cozy Drink:
Serve the Eggnog Hot Chocolate immediately while it’s still warm and cozy. Grab a blanket, relax, and enjoy every sip of this delicious holiday drink!
Can I Use Store-Bought Eggnog?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog is perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can choose low-fat or dairy-free eggnog as well.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste! If you prefer a sweeter drink, simply add a little more sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the hot chocolate mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat gently on the stove without boiling, then add the whipped cream and nutmeg just before serving.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
While whipped cream and nutmeg are classic toppings, feel free to get creative! You can add crushed peppermint, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.