Homemade Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Bourbon a warm, spiced hot chocolate infused with the comforting flavors of gingerbread and a splash of bourbon for a cozy treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. This indulgent drink is rich, creamy, and filled with the festive aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, making it an irresistible addition to chilly winter nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines the classic richness of hot chocolate with the festive warmth of gingerbread spices.
Bourbon adds a sophisticated twist, making it a perfect treat for holiday gatherings.
Easily adaptable for dairy-free or non-alcoholic preferences.
Quick and simple to prepare, ready in just 15 minutes.
Garnished with whipped cream and cookies, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
Heavy cream (or coconut cream)
High-quality cocoa powder
Dark chocolate, finely chopped
Molasses
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground ginger
Vanilla extract
Ground nutmeg
Ground cloves
Pinch of salt
Bourbon (optional, or adjust to taste)
Whipped cream, for topping
Gingerbread cookies, for garnish (optional)
Directions
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk everything together over medium heat until smooth and steaming.
Add the chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon (if using).
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with whipped cream and garnish with gingerbread cookies for a festive touch.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the bourbon for a kid-friendly treat.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of whole milk and cream.
Spice Adjustment: Add more cinnamon or ginger for a stronger spiced flavor.
Extra Richness: Use bittersweet chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a deeper chocolate taste.
Whipped Cream Alternatives: Try marshmallows or a dairy-free whipped topping for a fun twist.
Storage/Reheating
This hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the drink gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain its creamy texture.
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FAQs
Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hot chocolate and refrigerate it without the bourbon. Reheat it gently and add bourbon just before serving if desired.
What’s a good substitute for molasses?
You can use dark honey or maple syrup as a substitute for molasses, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, but brown sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor that complements the spices well.
How do I make this drink extra festive?
Garnish with crushed candy canes, sprinkle some nutmeg over the whipped cream, or serve it with gingerbread cookies for an extra holiday flair.
Is the bourbon necessary?
Not at all! The hot chocolate is still delicious without the bourbon, making it suitable for everyone.
Conclusion
Homemade Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Bourbon is the perfect cozy drink to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fire or serving it at a festive gathering, its rich chocolate base and warm spices are sure to delight. Adjust it to your preferences, top it with whipped cream, and let this drink bring holiday cheer to your cup!
📖 Recipe:
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Homemade Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Bourbon
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm up this holiday season with Homemade Gingerbread Hot Chocolate with Bourbon. This rich and creamy drink blends the classic flavors of hot chocolate with festive gingerbread spices and a touch of bourbon, creating the ultimate cozy treat. Perfect for winter nights and holiday gatherings, this recipe is quick, indulgent, and easily customizable.
Ingredients
Whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
Heavy cream (or coconut cream)
High-quality cocoa powder
Dark chocolate, finely chopped
Molasses
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground ginger
Ground nutmeg
Ground cloves
Vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Bourbon (optional, or adjust to taste)
Whipped cream, for topping
Gingerbread cookies, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk over medium heat until smooth and steaming.
- Stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted and fully incorporated.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and bourbon (if using).
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream and garnish with gingerbread cookies. Serve immediately.
Notes
To make it non-alcoholic, omit the bourbon.
For a dairy-free option, use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
Adjust spices to taste for a stronger or milder flavor.
This drink is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated on low heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: 290 kcal
