As the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of hot chocolate. Whenever snow blankets the ground and we spend hours outside shoveling, the kids inevitably ask for hot chocolate to warm up. After making mug after mug, I started experimenting with the classic recipe, and this particular version quickly became a favorite.
This is the Bourbon-Spiced Hot Chocolate: a rich, velvety blend of cocoa powder and chocolate chips that delivers deep, indulgent flavor. A touch of cinnamon, along with hints of clove and allspice, adds a warm, aromatic kick, while vanilla lends a subtle sweetness. Finally, a splash of bourbon rounds it all out, offering just the right amount of heat to chase away the cold. Whether you’re relaxing by the fire or thawing out after clearing the driveway, this enhanced hot chocolate is the perfect way to melt away winter woes.
If you prefer a virgin hot chocolate, the drink is equally tasty without the bourbon. Just omit it from the recipe.
Ingredients
2 cups milk
¼ heaping cup dark chocolate (or semi-sweet) chips
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp sugar
⅛ tsp ground cinnamon
a pinch ground clove
a pinch ground allspice
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 oz bourbon (optional)
Whipped cream
Additional chocolate chips
2 cups milk
¼ heaping cup dark chocolate (or semi-sweet) chips
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp sugar
⅛ tsp ground cinnamon
a pinch ground clove
a pinch ground allspice
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 oz bourbon (optional)
Whipped cream
Additional chocolate chips
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
Once the milk is warm, add the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, clove, and allspice. Whisk until fully combined and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Now, add the chocolate chips and stir continuously until melted and fully incorporated. Reduce heat to low and let the hot chocolate simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and bourbon if you are using it).
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top with whipped cream, and a 3-4 chocolate chips for garnish.