This Eggnog Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy drink for chilly days! Rich hot chocolate gets a creamy twist with eggnog, spices, and a sprinkle of nutmeg on top. Yum!
Let’s be real, nothing warms you up like this delicious combo! I love enjoying it while wrapped in my favorite blanket—such a treat during the holidays! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: This is the star of the drink! You can make your own or buy it at the store. If you want a lighter version, try using low-fat eggnog or almond eggnog for a dairy-free option.
Chocolate: I love using semi-sweet chocolate for a good balance of sweetness. Dark chocolate works great too! If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, use dairy-free chocolate chips or cocoa powder.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich texture, but you can substitute it with almond milk or oat milk if you need dairy-free options. Just note that it may vary the creaminess a bit.
Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg give this drink its holiday vibe. If you want a twist, a dash of allspice or ginger can also work well!
How Do I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate Is Smooth and Creamy?
Getting that smooth texture is crucial! Here are some steps to help you out:
- Heat the eggnog and milk gently. Be careful not to let it boil; you just want it warm.
- When adding chocolate, keep the heat low. Stir constantly until everything is melted and well combined. This prevents any clumps!
- For the best flavor, add spices after the chocolate has melted. This way, you ensure an even mix without clumping.
With these tips, you can achieve a deliciously creamy and festive eggnog hot chocolate that everyone will love!
Delicious Eggnog Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus more for garnish
- Whipped cream for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and serves your delicious hot chocolate warm right away! Perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base
Start by pouring the eggnog and milk into a medium saucepan. Set it over medium heat and warm the mixture gently. Make sure it gets warm but doesn’t boil—this will keep it creamy and delicious!
2. Melt the Chocolate
Once your eggnog and milk are warmed up, lower the heat to low. Add in your chopped chocolate or chocolate chips. Stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Look at that silky goodness!
3. Add Flavor
Next, stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. This will make your hot chocolate smell and taste just heavenly.
4. Serve Up the Goodness
Remove the pan from heat and carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs or heatproof glasses. It’s looking amazing already, right?
5. Top It Off
Now for the finishing touch! Add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top of each mug and sprinkle a little nutmeg for that festive flair.
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s hot. Gather your family or friends around, and enjoy the rich, creamy, and festive flavors of this eggnog hot chocolate!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Eggnog for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use non-dairy eggnog made from almond, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you want to control the sweetness level!
What If I Don’t Have Chocolate Chips?
No worries! You can substitute chocolate chips with cocoa powder—about 1/4 cup should be enough. Mix it in while heating the eggnog and milk, whisking to avoid any clumps.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover hot chocolate, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to recombine.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hot chocolate mixture in advance, then refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving and freshen it up with whipped cream on top!