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Best Spiked Hot Chocolate

A cozy spiked hot chocolate recipe perfect for chilly nights, combining rich chocolate flavors with a delightful twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 Cup Water
  • 3 1/2 tsp. Unflavored Gelatin Powder
  • 1/4 tsp. Kosher Salt
  • 1/3 Cup Powdered Sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. Cornstarch
  • Cooking Spray
  • 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/3 Cup Light Corn Syrup
  • 1/4 Cup Kahlua
  • 2 Tbsp. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • 3 Cups Whole or Nut Milk, Divided
  • 4 oz. Semisweet Chocolate Chips
  • 1/4 Cup Bourbon Whiskey
  • 2 Tbsp. Kahlua
  • 1 tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 tsp. Kosher Salt
  • Whipped Cream for Topping (Optional)

Instructions

  1. Bloom the Gelatin: In a large bowl, whisk together water, gelatin, and kosher salt. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to bloom.
  2. Prepare the Pan: Sift the powdered sugar and cornstarch together. Spray your 8-inch square pan with cooking spray, then dust it with the powdered sugar mixture.
  3. Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and Kahlua. Bring it to a boil until it reaches a temperature of 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  4. Combine Gelatin and Sugar Mixture: Gradually add the sugar syrup to the bloomed gelatin mixture while beating on high speed for about 12 minutes.
  5. Set the Mixture: Transfer the fluffy mixture into your prepared pan and let it set for at least 3 hours at room temperature, or until firm.
  6. Prepare the Hot Chocolate: In a separate saucepan, whisk the cocoa powder and one cup of nut milk until well combined.
  7. Melt the Chocolate: Add the semisweet chocolate chips and stir until melted and creamy.
  8. Flavor the Hot Chocolate: Mix in the bourbon, the remaining Kahlua, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt.
  9. Serve and Top: Pour the spiked hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and marshmallows if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Use unsweetened almond or coconut milk for a lighter version. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot chocolate, spiked drink, winter beverage, cozy drink, holiday drink