No matter how many hot cocoa recipes you try, let's face it: It's hard to screw up hot chocolate. As long as you have all your hot cocoa bar essentials in order, it doesn't take much to whip up a delicious chocolaty beverage. Know what can make hot cocoa even more fun? Booze! From the newest trend of adding red wine to Kahlua and more, there are plenty of liqueurs you can mix into your cuppa to make it for *adults only.* Here are 13 of our favorite boozy hot chocolate recipes to keep you totally toasty (and toasted) this winter.
Image via Fashion Edible
Rum and horchata — also known as RumChata — combines the kick of rum with the flavors of ground almonds, tiger nuts, sesame seeds and grains such as rice and barley. This winter, mix RumChata in with some hot chocolate and top with cinnamon and whipped cream. Score! (via Fashion Edible)
Image via Wholefully
Yes, red wine hot chocolate is a thing, and we’re obsessed. Here’s a tip: Change out the varietal of wine you use in order to adjust the sweetness level of your cocoa. If you prefer a sweeter drink, go for a strawberry wine, and if you prefer something a little drier, add some shiraz or merlot. (via Wholefully)
Image via Damn Delicious
This super simple recipe takes only 10 minutes to make, and it calls for ingredients you probably already have on hand at home. Hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, Kahlua, milk and sugar, to be exact. (via Damn Delicious)
Image via A co*cktail Life
Chocolate pairs well with spicy flavors. They bring out its nuttiness and add a little kick to its sweetness. This particular drink, which is topped with pillowy, fluffy marshmallows, is a case in point. (via A co*cktail Life)
Image via Broma Bakery
Speaking of spicy hot chocolate, this concoction is called “del diablo” for a reason. We’re not messing around here: This bad boy calls for Patron Incendio tequila (yes, tequila!), which is infused with chocolate and chili peppers. Now THAT is hot. (via Broma Bakery)
Image via Kara Lydon
Chipotle and cayenne pepper add a bit of spice to this super yummy hot chocolate concoction. And, BONUS, it’s 100 percent vegan! Add coconut whip on top for a little extra oomph. (via Kara Lydon)
Image via Floating Kitchen
If you prefer beer to liquor, this will be your go-to drink for the cooler months. Trust us. We recommend springing for a craft chocolate stout for the ultimate in flavor and quality. (via Floating Kitchen)
Image via Mixop
This peppermint hot chocolate tastes like an Andes mint in a cup! The addition of Kahlua or Peppermint Schanapps only makes it more fun. (via Mixop)
Image via Tito's Vodka
This chai cocoa feels so cozy and warm! The spiced chai and dark cocoa mix well together and create a delicious treat. (via Tito's Vodka)
Image via Delish D'Lites
This recipe calls on the flavors of RumChata once again, this time in conjunction with white chocolate. Pro tip: When you’re heating this mixture, make sure not to let the milk boil. Keep it at a low simmer as you add your white chocolate, vanilla extract and, of course, your booze. (via Delish D’Lites)
Image via Tito's Vodka
Chocolate, coffee, and alcohol make for such a yummy treat you'll want all winter long. (Tito's Vodka)
Image via Half-Baked Harvest
This hot chocolate is spiked twice: There's Kahlua and hazelnut liquor in the cocoa itself and then the eggnog marshmallows have coconut rum. (via Half-Baked Harvest)
Image via Salt and Lavender
Grand Mariner adds a hint of orange without being enough to feel the alcohol. (via Salt and Lavender)
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Maggie McCracken
Maggie is a writer and editor currently based in Chicago. She writes about mindfulness, astrology, nutrition, self-development, and fitness, and has a background in yoga instruction.
FAQs
Rum: With its sugar cane base, rum adds just the right punch to your hot chocolate. Try spiced rum on its own, white rum with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg or a flavored rum such as coconut or vanilla for even more of a tropical taste.
What can you put in hot chocolate instead of marshmallows? ›
Sweet add-ins include marshmallows, whipped cream, caramel, flavored spreads, and maple syrup. To transform cocoa into a co*cktail, add flavored liqueurs or traditional spirits. Other unique ways to liven up hot chocolate include adding coffee, spices, and extracts.
Why do we drink hot chocolate in winter? ›
Well, for one, it's hot and truly warms you up on a cold day. Plus, the luxurious taste and feel of drinking hot chocolate that then warms your whole body is exquisite! It is thick, silky and rich tasting!
What can I add to hot chocolate to make it better? ›
The 15 Best Things To Add To Hot Chocolate
- Add an extract. A quick and easy way to add flavor to your hot chocolate is by adding a splash of your favorite extract. ...
- Sprinkle in warm spices. ...
- Mix in Nutella. ...
- Swirl in caramel. ...
- Spike it. ...
- Infuse it with orange. ...
- Swap regular sugar for maple syrup. ...
- Add a shot (of coffee)
Issac: A dark rum would go well with hot chocolate. As for recommendations for someone who is new to rums, Don Q Anejo wins hands down as the best buy considering flavor and price.
What is a hot chocolate drink bomb? ›
Hot chocolate bombs — also called hot cocoa bombs — are spheres of tempered chocolate filled with hot cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and sometimes sprinkles. When added to hot milk, the chocolate spheres melt, releasing the cocoa mix and creating a tasty cup of hot chocolate.
What are good toppings for hot chocolate? ›
Move Over Marshmallows: 6 Best Hot Chocolate Toppings To Try
- Whipped Cream. Whipped cream works well with most of the drinks be it hot coffee or cold. ...
- Dark Cocoa Powder. ...
- Caramel Or Chocolate Sauce. ...
- Berries. ...
- Chopped Peanuts. ...
- Crushed Gingerbread Cookies.
Cornflour/Cornstarch: Mix a small amount with cold milk or water to create a smooth paste. Whisk this into your hot chocolate towards the end of the cooking process until it thickens. Double Cream: Stirring in a splash of double cream can instantly enrich and thicken your drink, giving it a velvety texture.
Does adding marshmallows keep hot chocolate warmer for longer? ›
Loss says kitchen air produces an “evaporative cooling” effect as water is freed from the drink's surface and into the atmosphere. Since they're filled with air, the marshmallows could insulate the hot chocolate by slowing down this cooling.
What happens if you drink hot chocolate every day? ›
According to Amreen, excessive intake might disrupt sleep patterns, elevate heart rate, or induce jitteriness in individuals sensitive to caffeine.
People love its flavor, texture, and smell. It helps reduce tension, makes you feel pleasant, and improves your mood. This is why people can get addicted to chocolate. Eating too much chocolate can turn you into a chocoholic.
What does hot chocolate do to your body? ›
Hot chocolate has been associated with improved mood and reduced stress levels due to its high cocoa content. The flavanols in cocoa have been linked to increased levels of serotonin, which helps to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. Additionally, theobromine in cocoa can help to reduce fatigue and improve alertness.
What booze to put in hot chocolate? ›
Adding a splash of alcohol like rum, brandy, or whisky can transform your hot chocolate into a truly indulgent and sophisticated drink. So go on, delve into the delicious world of spiked hot chocolate, experiment with your favourite flavours, and enjoy every sip of your carefully crafted, indulgent beverage.
How to doctor up hot chocolate mix? ›
Ideas to Customize:
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or 1-2 drops pure peppermint extract.
- 1 shot whiskey, dark rum, or peppermint schnapps.
- Pinch kosher salt highly recommended for all flavor combinations.
- Pinch espresso powder will enhance the chocolate flavor.
Marshmallows: The Unsung Hero
Believe it or not, the secret ingredient in gourmet hot chocolate is none other than marshmallows. These fluffy, sweet confections are the unsung heroes of the hot chocolate world, adding a delightful creaminess and hint of sweetness that takes the drink to a whole new level.
What alcohol goes well with chocolate? ›
Pairing Chocolate with Liquor
Though a few spirits fall out of these categories, it's generally accepted that the six types of distilled spirits are: brandy, gin, rum, tequila, vodka, and whiskey. Each pairs particularly well with chocolate, but the pairings depend on the blend in question.
Can hot chocolate boost your high? ›
Chocolate contains anandamide, a natural cannabinoid that binds to some of the same receptors in the brain as THC does, which can enhance and prolong your high. Darker and richer chocolates like dark cocoa powder or raw cacao nibs are especially beneficial because they contain higher levels of anandamide.
What bourbon is good in hot chocolate? ›
You won't pick up of those fine notes in a great cognac in hot chocolate. You want the bite and warmth, not to ruin yourself. So go with bourbon. I use Jim Beam, I always have it at home and it's great for so much more than the perfect hot chocolate with bourbon.
