There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of Spiked Hot Chocolate on a chilly evening. It’s sweet, creamy, and just a little indulgent with a splash of your favorite liquor. Think of it as hot chocolate all grown up—a cozy, comforting treat with a playful twist for adults. I’ve made this countless times for winter nights with friends, and it never fails to warm both hearts and hands. Let me show you how to whip up this irresistible drink at home.
Spiked Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) hot chocolate mix
- 8 oz (240 ml) milk (or your favorite non-dairy option like almond or oat milk)
- 1 oz (30 g) dark chocolate, chopped or broken into small pieces
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) liquor (try spiced rum, Baileys, or peppermint schnapps)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Marshmallows, optional but delightful
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cozy mug
Method
- Heat the milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Stir occasionally, and don’t let it boil—it should be steamy but not scalding.
- Mix in the chocolate: Stir in the hot chocolate mix until dissolved, then add the dark chocolate. Keep stirring until the chocolate melts completely, making the drink rich and velvety.
- Add the liquor: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in your chosen liquor. This step keeps the alcohol’s flavor intact.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a few marshmallows if you’re feeling extra festive.
Tips for the Best Spiked Hot Chocolate
- Use good chocolate: A high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) makes a world of difference. Trust me, it’s worth it.
- Heat gently: Don’t rush the milk; scalded milk can give the drink a slightly burnt taste.
- Experiment with flavors: Try swapping the liquor—peppermint schnapps adds a cool, minty touch, while spiced rum gives it a cozy, festive vibe.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Want to prep this ahead of time? You can make the chocolate base (milk, hot chocolate mix, and melted chocolate) and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove and stir in the liquor just before pouring into mugs.
Serving Suggestions
This drink is a treat on its own, but pairing it with the right snacks takes it to the next level:
- Spicy snacks: A handful of spicy roasted nuts or chips adds a fun contrast to the creamy sweetness.
- S’mores: The gooey marshmallow and chocolate combo is a natural fit—perfect if you’re enjoying this drink by a fire.
- Cheese platter: Go savory with a mix of sharp and creamy cheeses to balance the richness of the drink.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to mix things up:
Mexican Spiked Hot Chocolate
- Ingredients: Add a pinch of cinnamon and chili powder to the mix.
- Method: Stir the spices into the hot chocolate before adding the liquor.
Peppermint Spiked Hot Chocolate
- Ingredients: Use peppermint schnapps instead of your usual liquor.
- Method: Prepare the hot chocolate as usual, then stir in the schnapps for a minty twist.
Irish Spiked Hot Chocolate
- Ingredients: Swap in Irish cream liqueur for a creamy, slightly boozy flavor.
- Method: Stir in the Irish cream just before serving.
Non-Alcoholic Option
Skip the liquor for a family-friendly version. Add a splash of vanilla extract instead and top it off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
FAQs
Can I use water instead of milk?
Sure, but milk (or a non-dairy alternative) gives the drink a creamier texture. If you prefer a lighter version, water works too.
What’s the best liquor for Spiked Hot Chocolate?
It’s all about your taste! Baileys adds creaminess, rum brings warmth, and peppermint schnapps gives a refreshing kick.
Can I make it creamier?
Absolutely! Use a mix of milk and heavy cream for an ultra-rich texture.
Any creative garnish ideas?
Oh, go wild! Try a cinnamon stick, a dusting of nutmeg, or even crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Final Thoughts
This Spiked Hot Chocolate is pure comfort in a mug—a sweet, warm hug with a little grown-up fun. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fire, at a holiday gathering, or just winding down after a long day, it’s a drink that always hits the spot. And with so many ways to customize it, you’ll never get bored. So grab your favorite mug and whip one up—you deserve it!
