This boozy hot chocolate is simple to make on a chilly weeknight, yet festive enough to bring out for a holiday dessert table. It can be prepared on the stovetop or in the slow cooker. It's a drink that feels luxurious without asking much of you, which is the perfect winter treat for the holiday season.
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Quick and festive
As a general rule, I love a mug of hot chocolate when the chilly season starts. A tradition I started when I randomly added Baileys to my coffee mug. It turns out it also works with chocolate. Matches made in heaven if you ask me.
So, if I get overwhelmed or tired with all of the baking and want a bit of a lift in my drink, adding a splash of Baileys Irish cream liqueur to the homemade cocoa is all it takes. It's pure grown-up indulgence if you ask me.
It's perfect for Christmas morning and to sip indoors, as the weather makes it impossible to go outside, and the kids open their presents. They can drink this non-alcoholic minty hot chocolate option or the more classic whipped cream hot chocolate recipe.
It's all about getting the perfect balance between a deep chocolate flavor and the Irish cream liquor. So start with a small amount and adjust from there.
If you're adding boozy beverages to your Christmas brunch recipes, this is a great one.
FAQ
I like to use semisweet chocolate chips or a 54-64% chocolate bar, as it's a medium that appeals to most people. The higher the percentage, the less sugar the chocolate has. You can make it sweeter or less intense by using a chocolate bar with a lower cocoa percentage or some milk chocolate. If using chips, make sure they melt well.
Yes, you can use plant-based milk like almond, soy or coconut milk and non-dairy cream. Some might separate or not integrate as smoothly with the chocolate. Make sure whatever topping you use is also non-dairy. Keep in mind that the flavor and sometimes texture of the hot chocolate will be slightly different.
Absolutely! Slow cookers are convenient for making large batches. Combine your ingredients, set it on low, and let it simmer. Then serve and add the toppings.
How to make boozy hot chocolate
The amounts of liquor and sugar given in the recipe card can be adjusted to your palate.
Chocolate
Start with regular semisweet chocolate or good chocolate chips that melt well.
I like an intense chocolate flavor, so I use very dark ones and sometimes add a small amount of bittersweet.
Experiment and find your perfect brand or mix.
Stovetop or slow cooker
Both methods work.
I'm old-fashioned and like the coziness of stirring hot chocolate on the stove, but that's me. Choose whatever makes your day easier.
Slow cookers are especially good for large batches.
Divide among cups
The yield will vary depending on the size of the cup or mug you use.
If serving a large crowd or several people, use smalled cups, especially if there is a buffet table.
Cream topping
Homemade whipped cream: you can make it in advance and keep it refrigerated. Using a piping bag with a large star tip makes a festive cup of hot chocolate, but you can also use a spoon and simply add a scoop of cream.
Or use store-bought whipped topping from a can. It's easier and holds better usually.
Plan how many servings you need and leave more or less space for the toppings. I like to fill it almost to the brim.
Toppings
- Homemade cream: you can make it in advance and keep it refrigerated. Using a piping bag with a large star tip makes a festive cup of hot chocolate, but you can also use a spoon and simply add a scoop of cream.
- Chocolate syrup drizzled on top of the cream.
- Shaved chocolate or sprinkles: the first add a finishing and the latter are fun and make for a whimsical drink, especially for gatherings. Sprinkle them on top of the whipped topping.
- For those with a sweet tooth, add a bunch of mini marshmallows instead of cream to the cups. It will sweeten the hot drinks further as they melt.
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Baileys Hot Chocolate (15-minute recipe)
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk, or other milk of choice
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 ounces Irish cream liquor, such as Baileys or another brand
- 2 tablespoons sugar, only for sweet tooths
Toppings:
- 4 tablespoons whipped cream or topping, or to taste
- 2 teaspoons chocolate shavings, or to taste
- 2 drizzles chocolate sauce, or to taste
Instructions
- Place 2 cups whole milk, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped, in a small pot and stir constantly over medium-low heat until everything is well combined and hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat, add 2 ounces Irish cream liquor, such as Baileys, and 2 tablespoons sugar (if using), and stir to mix well. Taste and adjust the amount of liquor. Add more sugar if you want a sweeter drink, one extra teaspoon at a time, making sure you stir well before tasting again.
- Pour the hot chocolate mixture into two mugs, dividing equally, and top with 4 tablespoons whipped cream or topping and 2 teaspoons chocolate shavings or 2 drizzles chocolate sauce.
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