Make this rich, decadent boozy hot chocolate spiked with bourbon. It is a creamy winter warmer perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights.
Author:Sarah Peterson
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dessert Drink
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup quality bourbon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping
Instructions
Combine the whole milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Warm the mixture until steam rises, but do not let it boil.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add about 1/2 cup of the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk until a smooth paste forms.
Pour the cocoa paste back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream. Whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and hot.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the chopped bittersweet chocolate and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust sweetness if needed.
Pour the boozy hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Notes
For a richer chocolate flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao).
If you prefer a different spirit, substitute the bourbon with 1/2 cup of Baileys Irish Cream or peppermint schnapps for a different flavor profile.
You can prepare the base (steps 1 through 4) ahead of time and keep it warm on low heat. Add the bourbon just before serving.