This cozy bourbon spiked hot chocolate is the perfect treat for chilly nights. Rich chocolate mingles with a splash of smooth bourbon, making it warm and inviting.
Honestly, what’s better than chocolate that warms you from the inside out? I like to top mine with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa—pure bliss in a mug! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: I recommend whole milk for its creaminess, but you can use any milk you prefer—almond, oat, or skim work nicely too. Just keep in mind that the creaminess may vary.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the hot chocolate. If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. It still tastes great!
Chocolate: Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate gives a nice depth. If you’re out of chocolate, you can use chocolate syrup or melted chocolate chips. Just adjust the cocoa powder accordingly to maintain that chocolatey flavor.
Bourbon: Choose a good-quality bourbon for the best flavor. If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, try using bourbon-flavored extracts or simply skip it altogether. A splash of vanilla can add nice warmth.
How Do I Make the Smoothest Hot Chocolate?
Creating a velvety hot chocolate is all about the mixing technique. Start by warming the milk and cream gently to avoid scalding. Keep stirring as you add cocoa and sugar to ensure they dissolve completely.
- Use medium heat to keep the temperature controlled.
- Add the chopped chocolate after the liquids are warm, ensuring it melts smoothly.
- Remove from heat before adding vanilla and bourbon—this helps preserve their flavors.
With these tips, your hot chocolate will be wonderfully smooth and creamy every time!
Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Hot Chocolate:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
For Toppings:
- Mini marshmallows
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings
- Optional: whipped cream
- Optional: chocolate syrup for drizzle
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bourbon spiked hot chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. So in just a short while, you can enjoy a warm, chocolatey drink that will cozy you right up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk and Cream:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Place it over medium heat and warm the mixture until it’s nice and warm, but do not let it boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
2. Mix in Cocoa and Chocolate:
Once your milk and cream are warm, whisk in the 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and the 4 oz of chopped chocolate. Keep stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and everything is blended together into a smooth hot chocolate base. This is the best part—watch the rich chocolate come together!
3. Add Flavor:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Now, stir in the 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of bourbon whiskey. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. Sip a little to test the chocolatey goodness—yum!
4. Serve it Up:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs, filling them about three-quarters full.
5. Top it Off:
Top your delightful drink generously with mini marshmallows. If you want to go all out, add a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s all about that extra fluffiness!
6. Garnish Your Creation:
Sprinkle a little cocoa powder or chocolate shavings over the top for that finishing touch. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a bit of chocolate syrup—it tastes amazing!
7. Enjoy Your Cozy Treat:
It’s time to sip and enjoy this warm, comforting bourbon spiked hot chocolate. Perfect for sharing or just keeping all to yourself on a chilly evening.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Just choose a creamier option for the best flavor and texture.
How Can I Make It More Chocolatey?
If you’re craving an even richer chocolate flavor, consider increasing the amount of chopped chocolate to 6 oz or adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder. Just be sure to taste and adjust the sugar if necessary!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to smooth it out if it thickens.
Can I Prepare This Drink Without Alcohol?
Yes! You can simply omit the bourbon if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. For added depth of flavor, consider replacing it with a splash of vanilla extract or espresso.