Why you’ll love this recipe

This simple hot chocolate highlights amaretto — a sweet Italian liqueur with an unmistakable almond-like aroma and flavor. Amaretto pairs beautifully with cocoa and adds a cozy, boozy note that transforms everyday hot cocoa into a special seasonal drink. The recipe uses four main ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or a relaxing winter evening.

Ingredients

• 3 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (regular or dark cocoa)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 oz. amaretto (1 oz. per serving)

If you prefer to keep the drink non-alcoholic, omit the amaretto and add about 1/4 teaspoon almond extract to each cup for the almond flavor without the booze. You can also substitute almond milk with cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk depending on your taste and dietary needs.

Recipe details

Prep time: 5 mins   |   Cook time: 10 mins   |   Servings: 2

Instructions

1. Combine the almond milk, cocoa powder and maple syrup in a small saucepan. Whisk gently to dissolve the cocoa and break up any lumps.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
3. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the hot chocolate thickens slightly.
4. Pour 1 oz. amaretto into the bottom of each mug, then ladle the hot chocolate on top. Stir to combine.
5. Optional: top with a little frothed almond milk or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Variations and tips

• Dark cocoa powder will give a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor; regular cocoa is milder and slightly sweeter.
• For a richer texture, use a mixture of almond milk and a splash of full-fat coconut milk.
• If you like your hot chocolate sweeter, add an extra teaspoon of maple syrup or a touch of honey (if not strictly vegan).
• To make this for a crowd, simply double or triple the recipe and keep warm in a large pot on low heat, stirring occasionally.
• For a nut-free option, substitute oat or soy milk and replace amaretto with a different liqueur, or use almond extract (in small amounts) for a non-alcoholic almond flavor.

Nutrition (approximate, per serving)

Serving: 2 | Calories: 232 kcal | Carbohydrates: 38 g | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 5 g | Fiber: 5 g | Sugar: 15 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Serving suggestions

This spiked hot chocolate pairs well with light desserts like biscotti or almond cookies. Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a few toasted almond slivers, or a cinnamon stick for stirring. It also makes a festive option for small holiday gatherings; offer a non-alcoholic version by preparing a separate batch without amaretto and adding almond extract to taste.