This cozy bourbon spiked hot chocolate is perfect for chilly evenings. Rich chocolate meets a warming splash of bourbon, giving it a nice kick!
Imagine cuddling up with a mug of this tasty treat. It’s like a hug in a cup! I love topping mine with marshmallows—because who can resist a little extra sweetness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture. If you want to reduce calories, you can use 2% milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, but it may vary in flavor and creaminess.
Chocolate: For a rich taste, semi-sweet chocolate works great. If you’re looking for something a little healthier, dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content is also a nice choice.
Bourbon: The bourbon adds warmth. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can skip it or use non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives, which are becoming more popular. You can also use rum as a different flavor option.
Toppings: Mini marshmallows are classic, but try whipped cream or crushed peppermint for a fun twist. You can even use caramel sauce instead of chocolate syrup for a unique flavor.
How Do I Make the Creamiest Hot Chocolate?
The key to a rich and creamy hot chocolate is in the blending of ingredients. Start with warming the milk and cream gently. Here’s how to get that creamy, dreamy texture:
- Whisk the cocoa powder and sugar into the milk before heating. This helps to dissolve everything smoothly.
- Keep stirring as you add chocolate—this ensures it melts evenly.
- Don’t let it overheat; keep it on low heat once the chocolate’s added to prevent it from scalding.
Taking your time with these steps will give you a wonderfully smooth hot chocolate every time! Enjoy your cozy drink!
How to Make Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup bourbon (adjust to taste)
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bourbon spiked hot chocolate will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and serves up warmth and comfort perfect for chilly evenings. Get cozy with it right after making!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix the whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Warm this mixture over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until it’s hot but not boiling. You want it to feel warm and comforting!
2. Add Chocolate:
Once the mixture is warm, lower the heat to low. Add the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) and stir continuously until it’s completely melted. This makes the drink rich and smooth, so stir until there are no lumps!
3. Add Flavor:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Now, stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon. Feel free to adjust the bourbon depending on how much you like; a little can go a long way!
4. Serve the Hot Chocolate:
Carefully pour the delicious hot chocolate into mugs, filling them up nicely. You can make it as full as you like, just leaving a little room for toppings.
5. Top It Off:
Top your hot chocolate generously with mini marshmallows. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the marshmallows for an extra touch of sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, add some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch!
6. Enjoy!
Take a moment to admire your creation, then serve it immediately. Enjoy every warm sip of your bourbon spiked hot chocolate—it’s the perfect treat for any cozy occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?
Absolutely! While whole milk gives a creamy texture, you can use 2% milk or almond milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that non-dairy alternatives might alter the flavor slightly.
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Yes! Simply omit the bourbon or substitute it with non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of rum extract for a warm, flavorful twist without the alcohol.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
You can make the hot chocolate base ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the bourbon and reheat before serving. This makes it super convenient for gatherings or cozy nights in!
