This Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate is a cozy drink that warms you up on chilly nights. It’s rich, chocolatey, and has just the right kick from the bourbon.
I love to sip on this while curling up with a good book. It’s like a big hug in a mug! Don’t forget the whipped cream on top—it makes it even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives the hot chocolate its creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can use 2% milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option. Oat milk is also a great choice for creaminess!
Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds richness. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can replace it with additional milk. Coconut cream can add an interesting flavor twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Chopped chocolate melts beautifully into the mix. If you want more chocolatey goodness, opt for dark chocolate. Chocolate chips work too, but they might not melt as smoothly.
Bourbon Whiskey: This gives the drink its warming kick. You can substitute with dark rum for a different flavor, but I find bourbon pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Mini Marshmallows: These are classic for topping. If you prefer something less sweet, try whipped cream or even a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for a seasonal twist!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chocolate Melt?
The secret to smooth hot chocolate is all about gradual heating. Start by warming the milk and cream slowly over medium heat. Stirring constantly helps to prevent burning at the bottom. Here’s a step-by-step to make it foolproof:
- Combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar in a saucepan.
- Heat gently until it’s warm—don’t let it boil!
- Add cocoa powder and chopped chocolate, whisk until melted.
- Be patient—this may take a couple of minutes, but it’ll be worth it!
By taking your time to heat the liquid, you ensure a creamy and well-mixed chocolate experience, just like you’d find in a café. Enjoy your cozy drink!
Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or use high-quality chocolate chips)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- Pinch of salt
- Mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes heating the ingredients and whisking everything together, and then you can enjoy your cozy drink right away! Perfect for when you need a delicious warmth on a chilly day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Base:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Add the granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until it’s hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve.
2. Melt in the Chocolate:
Once the milk and cream are warm, whisk in the cocoa powder and the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Keep whisking until everything is melted and smooth. You want it to look rich and creamy—don’t be afraid to give it some good mixing!
3. Flavor It Up:
Now, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Follow this by adding a pinch of salt, which will really enhance the chocolate flavor. Then it’s time to stir in the bourbon whiskey! Feel free to adjust how much you use based on your preference for strength.
4. Serve and Top:
Pour your delicious hot chocolate into mugs. Now for the fun part—top with mini marshmallows and maybe a dollop of whipped cream if you like. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder on top.
5. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm and cozy. Sip and enjoy each rich, chocolatey, and warming sip of your Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate!
This drink is perfect for relaxing evenings, warming up after a cold day, or enjoying during festive gatherings. Cheers to good times and great chocolate!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that each type of milk will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of your hot chocolate.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you find it too sweet, simply reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or even omit it entirely, especially if you’re using sweetened chocolate. You can always taste and adjust as you go to find the perfect balance for your preference!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave while stirring to ensure even heating. You may also want to add a splash more milk for creaminess!
Can I Make This Non-Alcoholic?
Yes, you can easily skip the bourbon for a delicious non-alcoholic version! Just follow the recipe as is, and enjoy the rich chocolate flavors without the kick.
