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A steaming mug of Spiked Hot Chocolate garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, perfect for a cozy winter evening.

Best Spiked Hot Chocolate Ever

Indulge in the ultimate winter warmer with this rich and decadent spiked hot chocolate recipe. Made with real chocolate, cocoa powder, and a touch of brown sugar, this boozy treat is perfect for cozy nights and festive celebrations. Customize your experience with your favorite liquor and toppings for a truly personalized delight.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Beverage, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4-8 ounces of your choice of liquor Peppermint Schnapps, Rum, Whiskey, Coffee Liqueur, Amaretto, or Orange Liqueur
  • Whipped cream, for topping optional
  • Marshmallows, for topping optional
  • Chocolate shavings, for topping optional
  • Sprinkle of cinnamon, for topping optional
  • Drizzle of caramel sauce, for topping optional

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mugs
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife (for chopping chocolate)
  • Cutting board (for chopping chocolate)

Method
 

  1. Combine the milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.
  2. Whisk in the cocoa powder and brown sugar until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of cocoa powder.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped bittersweet chocolate. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in your choice of liquor. Start with 1-2 ounces per serving and adjust to your liking.
  6. Pour the Spiked Hot Chocolate into mugs and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Do not boil the milk; heat gently until steaming. Whisk constantly while melting the chocolate to prevent burning. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less brown sugar. You can make the hot chocolate base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving. For a crowd, keep the hot chocolate warm in a slow cooker on low heat, adding alcohol per serving. Try variations like Mexican Spiked Hot Chocolate (cinnamon and cayenne), Peanut Butter Spiked Hot Chocolate, Salted Caramel Spiked Hot Chocolate, Mocha Spiked Hot Chocolate, or White Spiked Hot Chocolate.