Sip a warm mug of this 5-ingredient Easy Spiked Hot Chocolate, finished with mini marshmallows for a cozy winter treat. It’s simple to prepare, easy to scale, and perfect for holiday evenings or a quiet night in.
Festive Spiked Hot Chocolate
This spiked hot chocolate is quick to make and absolutely delicious. Prepare a single batch for two, or double or triple it for gatherings. Below you’ll find ingredient notes, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and a few tasty variations so you can tailor the drink to your preferences.
Spiked Hot Chocolate Ingredients
This recipe uses five simple ingredients. Mini marshmallows or whipped cream are optional but highly recommended for topping:
- Milk (2%) — any milk will work (dairy or plant-based).
- Dark chocolate — use a good-quality bar or chips; choose a less-sweet option for a richer flavor. Milk chocolate can be used if you prefer a sweeter result.
- Cocoa powder — unsweetened, for depth and chocolate flavor.
- Maple syrup — a touch of natural sweetness that complements the chocolate.
- Bourbon — adds warmth and complexity; see the suggestions below for alternatives.
- Toppings — mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon (optional).
Best Booze for Spiked Hot Chocolate
Bourbon is the classic choice used here, but you can experiment with a variety of spirits to create different flavor profiles. Try one of the following:
- Whiskey (blended or single malt)
- Amaretto for a nutty, almond-forward note
- Irish cream for a creamy, smooth finish
- Fireball for a cinnamon-spiced kick
- Red wine for a mulled-wine twist
- Peppermint schnapps for a minty holiday version
How to Make Spiked Hot Chocolate
This festive spiked hot chocolate is ready in four simple steps. Follow them for a silky, well-balanced drink.
1. Heat Milk & Melt Chocolate
Combine the milk and chopped dark chocolate (or chocolate chips) in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Warm slowly and whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add Cocoa Powder & Maple Syrup
Whisk in the cocoa powder and maple syrup until everything is well combined. Continue heating just until the mixture begins to gently bubble — do not let it boil vigorously.
3. Spike the Hot Chocolate
Pour 1.5 oz (about 3 tablespoons) of bourbon into each mug, then ladle the hot chocolate on top. Stir gently to combine the spirit with the warm chocolate.
4. Top and Enjoy
Garnish with mini marshmallows, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon. Serve immediately. For photos like the ones here, you can briefly microwave the mug (10–15 seconds on high) to slightly melt the marshmallows.
Tips and Variations
- Texture: For an extra silky texture, finish with a small splash of heavy cream or vanilla extract before serving.
- Sweetness control: Adjust maple syrup to taste or substitute honey or simple syrup if preferred.
- Dairy-free option: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and a dairy-free dark chocolate to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a drop of peppermint extract, or a dash of cayenne for a subtle heat.
- Garnishes: Crushed candy canes, grated chocolate, or a cinnamon stick make festive additions.
Can You Make Spiked Hot Chocolate in the Slow Cooker?
Yes. Place all ingredients (except the booze and delicate toppings) in a slow cooker and heat on low until the chocolate melts and the mixture is warm, about an hour. Stir occasionally. Once heated, set the cooker to warm and add the bourbon to individual mugs when serving to preserve the alcohol’s flavor.
Can You Make a Large Batch?
Absolutely. Double or triple the ingredient amounts and prepare in a large pot or slow cooker. Keep the spiked portion separate and add the spirit to each mug when serving, or stir in the full amount if you want every cup to be boozy. For parties, keep a non-alcoholic batch warm and offer a separate bottle of bourbon or other spirits so guests can customize their drinks.
More Boozy Beverage Ideas
If you enjoy this spiked hot chocolate, try other warm cocktails and seasonal drinks such as:
- Mulled wine
- Apple cider cocktail
- Blackberry Moscow Mule
- Hot toddy
- Rosemary vodka collins
More Hot Chocolate Recipes
- Dairy-Free Spiked Hot Chocolate
- Decadent Spiced Coconut Hot Chocolate
- Vegan Chai Hot Chocolate
- Gingerbread Hot Chocolate in a Jar
Recipe
Easy Spiked Hot Chocolate (Serves 2)
Prep: 5 mins • Cook: 10 mins • Total: 15 mins
Ingredients
- 3 cups 2% milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 3 oz bourbon (about 1.5 oz per mug)
- Optional: mini marshmallows or whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and dark chocolate. Heat over medium, whisking constantly until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the cocoa powder and maple syrup. Whisk until fully combined and the mixture begins to steam and bubble gently.
- Pour 1.5 oz bourbon into each mug. Ladle the hot chocolate into the mugs and stir to combine.
- Top with mini marshmallows or whipped cream and serve immediately. For melted marshmallows like in the photos, microwave the mug for 10–15 seconds on high.
Nutrition (approx. per serving)
Calories: 466 kcal • Carbohydrates: 50 g • Protein: 13 g • Fat: 13 g • Fiber: 1 g • Sugar: 48 g
Nutrition estimates are approximate and should be used as a guide only.