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Boozy hot chocolate is the perfect way to warm up during the holiday season, and it’s super easy to make with basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Let’s make some Boozy Hot Chocolate! This might just be the best way to enjoy hot chocolate that I’ve come across.
There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter evening. You know what I mean, right?
I remember the first time I tried this fun, hot cocktail. It was like a hug in a mug, but with a little extra cheer. (Hug in a mug is just fun to say, haha!!)
The rich cocoa powder mixed with creamy milk and a splash of vodka turns an ordinary cup into something special.
Plus, you can top it with mini marshmallows or whipped cream for even more fun. I’ve got some great ideas for other additions down below.
This recipe uses simple ingredients like cocoa powder, whole milk, and chocolate chips. You don’t need a fancy coffee shop or a barista to make this delicious cocktail.
So, if you’re looking for the perfect way to treat yourself or impress your friends, this boozy hot chocolate is the way to go. Let’s get started!
Some of our other favorite BOOZY BEVERAGES we have on our site include: Cranberry Orange Rum Punch Cocktail Recipe, Homemade Kahlua (Quick Coffee Liqueur Recipe), and Passion Fruit Gin Fizz.

Jump to:
- WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
- INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
- HOW TO MAKE BOOZY HOT CHOCOLATE:
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
- WHAT KIND OF CHOCOLATE IS THE BEST TO USE?
- DO I HAVE TO ADD ALCOHOL?
- ANY ADDITIONS?
- ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
- HOW TO STORE:
- DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Easy Homemade Boozy Hot Chocolate Recipe
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: Combining whole milk, heavy cream, and chocolate chips makes the hot chocolate extra decadent.
- Customizable Alcohol Option: You can add your favorite liquor or skip it altogether for a family-friendly version.
- Simple Ingredients: With items like cocoa powder and vanilla extract, it’s easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Granulated sugar
- Milk chocolate chips
- Vanilla extract
- Vodka (optional)
- Garnishes: Whipped cream, mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips
HOW TO MAKE BOOZY HOT CHOCOLATE:
- Place the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and sugar in a small saucepot.
- Whisk together and bring to scalding (181°F), do not boil, whisking occasionally.
- Take off the heat, add the chocolate chips and vanilla. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Whisk together until smooth and the chocolate is melted and well incorporated.
- In the bottom of a mug, add 1 shot of vodka.
- Pour the hot chocolate on top, stir together.
- Add garnishes such as softly whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and mini chocolate chips.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:
WHAT KIND OF CHOCOLATE IS THE BEST TO USE?
Using high-quality milk chocolate chips gives a smooth and sweet flavor.
If you prefer a richer taste, dark chocolate or semisweet chocolate works great too.
Solid chocolate bars chopped into pieces can also be used for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Basically, I would say you can use whatever chocolate fits your fancy!
DO I HAVE TO ADD ALCOHOL?
No, you don’t have to add alcohol.
This recipe tastes delicious even without it.
If you’re making it for kids or prefer a non-alcoholic hot chocolate, simply leave out the vodka.
It’ll still be a cozy, tasty, fun drink.

ANY ADDITIONS?
Oh, there are so many possibilities here.
I haven’t tried this whole list, but come on. Don’t these ingredients sound amazing??
- Peppermint Schnapps: Add a splash for a minty twist.
- Coffee Liqueur: Mix in some for a mocha flavor.
- Cinnamon Sticks: Stir with a cinnamon stick for extra spice.
- Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
- Candy Canes: Use as a festive stirrer.
- Chocolate Syrup: Drizzle on top for extra chocolate goodness.
- Caramel Syrup: Add a swirl for sweetness.
- Orange Peel: Drop in for a hint of citrus.
- Irish Cream: Substitute vodka with Irish cream for a creamy touch.
- White Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle on top for contrast.
ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?
Oh yeah! Let me know in the comments if you have any other ideas here.
I love hearing about your creations!
- Almond Milk or Oat Milk: Use instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
- Coconut Milk: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Maple Syrup: Use instead of granulated sugar for natural sweetness.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Swap milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate if you prefer.
- Chocolate Liqueur: Use instead of vodka for extra chocolate flavor.
- Honey: Substitute sugar with honey for a different taste.

HOW TO STORE:
Refrigerator: Let the hot chocolate cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, heat it in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: It’s best to enjoy this drink fresh, but if you need to store it longer, you can freeze it.
Pour the cooled hot chocolate into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on medium heat.
DANA’S TIPS AND TRICKS:
- Heat Slowly: Warm the milk mixture over medium heat to avoid burning.
- Whisk Well: Whisking helps blend the cocoa powder smoothly without lumps.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using good cocoa powder and chocolate chips makes a big difference.
- Don’t Boil: Keep an eye on the milk so it doesn’t boil over.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder add fun.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go and adjust the sugar to your liking.

Boozy Hot Chocolate is a delightful way to warm up and treat yourself.
Whether you’re cuddling up with a book or hosting friends, this drink adds a special touch to any cold day.
So grab your favorite mug, and enjoy this cozy, delicious cocktail!
If you like this recipe, you might also like:
Easy Homemade Boozy Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces vodka optional
- Garnishes: Whipped Cream Mini Marshmallow, Mini Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Place the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and sugar in a small saucepot.2 cups whole milk, 2 cups heavy cream, ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Whisk together and bring to scalding (181°F), do not boil, whisking occasionally.
- Take off the heat, add the chocolate chips and vanilla. Let sit for 5 minutes.1 cup milk chocolate chips, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whisk together until smooth and the chocolate is melted and well incorporated.
- In the bottom of a mug, add 1 shot of vodka.4 ounces vodka
- Pour the hot chocolate on top, stir together.
- Add garnishes such as softly whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and mini chocolate chips.Garnishes: Whipped Cream
Notes
- Heat Slowly: Warm the milk mixture over medium heat to avoid burning.
- Whisk Well: Whisking helps blend the cocoa powder smoothly without lumps.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using good cocoa powder and chocolate chips makes a big difference.
- Don’t Boil: Keep an eye on the milk so it doesn’t boil over.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder add fun.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go and adjust the sugar to your liking.
Nutrition
Love This Recipe?
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