This bourbon spiked hot chocolate is the perfect cozy drink for chilly nights! Rich chocolate meets a splash of warming bourbon, creating a delightful treat that warms you inside out.
Trust me, adding bourbon turns the ordinary hot cocoa into party-worthy magic! I love sipping this while wrapping up in a blanket—it’s my go-to for a comfy night in. 🍫🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but any milk works! Almond, oat, or skim milk are great dairy-free alternatives. Just keep in mind that these can change the flavor and creaminess.
Chocolate: Use good-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for rich flavor. Feel free to swap it with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. You can also use cocoa powder instead for a lighter option, but I’d blend it with a little more milk.
Bourbon: I love using bourbon here for its caramel notes. If bourbon isn’t your thing, rum or Irish whiskey can work too. Just adjust the amount to taste! For a non-alcoholic version, skip the alcohol and add a bit of extra vanilla.
Mini Marshmallows: These are a classic topping! If you want a healthier alternative, try whipped cream or even a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg instead. Vegan marshmallows are also available for a plant-based option.
How Do I Ensure My Hot Chocolate is Smooth and Creamy?
Getting the hot chocolate perfectly creamy relies on a couple of key steps. First, warming the milk and cream together gently allows the ingredients to meld without boiling, which keeps it smooth.
- Whisk constantly as you heat to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom.
- When adding chocolate, keep the heat low to help it melt gradually. Stir continuously to ensure a velvety texture.
- Be sure to taste and adjust sweetness before serving, as adding bourbon can change the balance.
Enjoy this delightful drink with confidence! It’s a great way to warm up after a chilly day or for special gatherings.
How to Make Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup good-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup bourbon (adjust to desired strength)
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Cocoa powder or shaved chocolate, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bourbon spiked hot chocolate can be ready in about 15-20 minutes. It takes a few minutes to heat and mix the ingredients, and once it’s done, you’ll have cozy mugs of warmth ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Warm the mixture over medium heat while whisking frequently. Keep an eye on it to make sure it gets hot but doesn’t boil.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
Once the mixture is hot, reduce the heat to low. Add the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) into the saucepan. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted, and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy. This should take just a couple of minutes.
3. Add Flavor and Bourbon:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and pour in the bourbon. Mix well to combine all the delightful flavors together!
4. Serve It Up:
Pour the rich hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top each mug generously with mini marshmallows. For an extra touch, lightly dust the marshmallows with cocoa powder or sprinkle some shaved chocolate on top as garnish.
5. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm, and enjoy the deliciously creamy, bourbon-spiked treat with friends or curled up by yourself on a cozy night in!
This recipe yields about 2 servings, perfect for sharing—or for enjoying all by yourself!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used as great dairy-free alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary a bit from using whole milk.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you find the hot chocolate needs more sweetness, feel free to add more sugar, honey, or even a splash of flavored syrup. Start with a small amount, as you can always add more if needed!
What If I Don’t Have Bourbon?
No problem! You can substitute bourbon with Irish whiskey or spiced rum for a different flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the alcohol and add a touch more vanilla extract for flavor.
How Should I 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, adding a splash of milk if it thickens up too much.
