The colder months are here, and for me, that means it’s time for warm, cozy drinks. Nothing beats a comforting mug of hot chocolate when the weather turns chilly. I’ve gathered three of my favorite hot chocolate recipes for you today.
Whether you like a classic warm treat, something with a grown-up kick, or a fun new flavor, I have a hot chocolate recipe you will love. Let’s make some tasty drinks!
Jump to Recipe:
Warm up with Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate: A Cozy Drink Recipe
This hot chocolate is just for adults and brings a lovely warmth from the bourbon. It’s a comforting drink perfect for a quiet evening.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Choose Your Bourbon: A good quality bourbon makes all the difference here. You don’t need the most expensive, but something you enjoy drinking on its own is best.
- Real Chocolate: Using good quality dark chocolate chunks or chips will give you a richer, smoother drink than just cocoa powder.
What You Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
⏱️ Time: 10-15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Melt Chocolate
In a medium saucepan, gently heat the milk, chopped dark chocolate, and sugar over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and warm. Do not let it boil.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the amount of bourbon if you prefer a stronger or milder flavor.
Step 3: Serve Warm
Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm drink.
📝 Final Note
You can prepare the hot chocolate base ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently and add the bourbon just before serving.
Festive Christmas Hot Chocolate: A Holiday Treat Recipe
Get into the holiday spirit with this yummy hot chocolate. It tastes like Christmas in a mug and is perfect for festive gatherings.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way with peppermint. Start with a small amount and add more if you like a stronger mint flavor.
- Candy Cane Crunch: Crushed candy canes make a fun and pretty topping. You can crush them in a bag with a rolling pin.
What You Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (or to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
⏱️ Time: 10 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and pinch of salt until they are well combined.
Step 2: Heat & Whisk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring often, until it is hot and steaming. Do not allow it to boil.
Step 3: Finish & Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with a generous amount of whipped cream, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
📝 Final Note
For an extra festive look, you can add a drop of red food coloring to some whipped cream before topping your drink.
Sweet Cinnamon Bun White Hot Chocolate: A Unique Drink Idea
This special hot chocolate tastes just like a warm cinnamon bun in a mug. It’s a sweet and creamy drink perfect for a sweet treat.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Good White Chocolate: Use high-quality white chocolate chips or a chopped white chocolate bar for the best creamy texture and flavor. Avoid white confectionery coating.
- Cinnamon Sugar Rim: A mix of cinnamon and sugar on the rim of your mug adds a lovely aroma and extra sweetness with every sip.
What You Need
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 oz good quality white chocolate, chopped or chips
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for rim
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, for rim
⏱️ Time: 10-15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare Mug Rims
On a small plate, mix together 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Lightly wet the rims of your serving mugs with water. Dip each mug rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
Step 2: Melt & Mix
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, white chocolate, brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring often, until the white chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and warm. Be careful not to let it boil.
Step 3: Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the sweet hot chocolate into your prepared mugs. Serve immediately.
📝 Final Note
This drink is quite sweet, so you might not need additional toppings, but a dollop of plain whipped cream can be a nice touch.