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Spiked Hot Chocolate
This boozy hot cocoa is not to be missed.

As the weather gets colder and we start to get into the holiday spirit, it is nice to warm up with a spiked hot chocolate. With the same rich flavor you remembered as a kid, and a splash of bourbon or rum to add an elegant adult touch, all you'll need is a toasty, gooey marshmallow and you have a warming winter drink that doubles as a classic cocktail recipe.
The secret to this whiskey hot chocolate: First create a decadent paste of cocoa powder, sugar and a splash of milk, before adding the rest of the milk and cinnamon. This ensures no lumps in the thick chocolatey drink! What results is a super thick and flavor-packed spiked hot chocolate that is so rich it could double as a Christmas dessert.
You can easily turn this hot chocolate recipe into a vegan spiked hot chocolate by simply swapping in your favorite alternative milk for whole milk, and you have a tasty vegan cocktail that will keep you warm all winter long. And if you want to make a batch that the whole family can enjoy, leave the booze on the side and let the adults add their own!
P.S. Have a different way you love to make boozy hot chocolate? Tell us your favorite combos in the comments!
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 8 cups whole milk
- 2 cinnamon sticks, crushed
- 8 oz. semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 to 1 cup bourbon or rye
- Toasted marshmallows, for serving
Directions
- Step 1In a large saucepan, combine cocoa powder and granulated sugar.
- Step 2Whisk in 1½ cups milk until fully incorporated (mixture will be a thick paste).
- Step 3Gradually whisk in remaining 6½ cups milk. Add cinnamon sticks and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until you can smell the cinnamon, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Step 4Add chocolate chips and whisk until melted. Strain into a second pot, then stir in bourbon. Serve topped with toasted marshmallows.
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