If you’re looking for a holiday drink with a little extra kick, this Bad Santa Hot Chocolate is it. Creamy, chocolaty, and spiked with bourbon, it’s perfect for cozy nights by the fire or a festive holiday gathering. I love that it’s rich and indulgent, yet easy to make in just a few minutes on the stovetop. If you want a non-alcoholic option or something you can whip up ahead of time, my Hot Cocoa Mix is a favorite, and it’s perfect for gift-giving!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Milk: I use whole milk for a rich, creamy hot chocolate, but 2% or even oat milk works nicely if you want a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the drink evenly. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that classic chocolate flavor. Natural or Dutch-processed cocoa both work; just know that Dutch-processed is a bit smoother and less acidic.
- Milk and Dark Chocolate: Using a mix of chopped milk and dark chocolate creates a rich, layered flavor. You can adjust the ratio for sweetness or intensity, or try flavored chocolate like peppermint or hazelnut for a festive twist.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate. Almond extract can be fun for a subtle holiday twist.
- Bourbon: Adds a boozy kick. If you want a kid-friendly or alcohol-free version, simply omit it. The drink is still creamy and indulgent.
- Toppings: Mini marshmallows and chocolate curls make it extra festive. You can also try whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Hot Chocolate
- Heat gently: Keep the milk mixture steaming, not boiling, to prevent scorching. Stir constantly for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Chop chocolate finely: This helps it melt quickly and evenly into the hot milk.
- Adjust sweetness and booze: Taste before serving and add a little more sugar or bourbon if desired.
- Make it kid-friendly: Simply skip the bourbon, and you’ve got a rich, cozy hot chocolate everyone can enjoy.
- Festive flair: Top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra holiday fun.
FAQs
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes! Simply omit the bourbon; the drink is still creamy, rich, and perfectly chocolatey.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely. You can swap in flavored chocolate bars like peppermint, hazelnut, or caramel for a fun twist. Dark, milk, or even semi-sweet chocolate all work.
Can I make this ahead of time?
For best results, I recommend making it fresh. However, you can prepare the chocolate mixture without the milk or bourbon and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Heat gently and stir in milk and bourbon just before serving.
How can I serve this to a crowd?
Consider doubling or tripling the recipe and keeping it warm in a slow cooker for a holiday party. Mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings make it look extra festive.
Serving Ideas
- Serve in festive mugs with mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings for a cozy presentation.
- Pair with cookies, biscotti, or holiday-themed treats for a decadent dessert drink.
- Great for small holiday gatherings or as a special treat while watching holiday movies.
How To Store Bad Santa Hot Chocolate
Room Temperature: Best served immediately.
Refrigerator: Store any leftover hot chocolate base (without marshmallows) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; milk may separate when frozen and reheated.
Bad Santa Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons (20 g) milk chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons (20 g) dark chocolate, chopped
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ounces bourbon
- mini marshmallows, for topping
- chocolate curls, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, sugar, and cocoa powder. Whisk continuously until the mixture is hot and steaming, but not boiling, to prevent scorching.
- Stir in the chopped milk chocolate and dark chocolate until fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla and bourbon.
- Pour the hot chocolate into two heat-safe mugs. Top generously with mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.
Did you make this recipe?
Thank you for making my recipe! You took pictures, right? Well go ahead and post them on Instagram! Be sure to mention me @iambaker and use the hashtag #YouAreBaker.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I love a spiked hot chocolate on a cold day! This is a chocolatey drink that will warm you up from the inside out!
Elizabeth
Bourbon goes perfectly in a mug of hot chocoalate! I love this!
Stephanie
This is a perfect drink for the holidays and for those who love a little bourbon!
Bella
This is the ultimate grown-up hot chocolate! The mix of milk and dark chocolate makes it so rich and decadent, and the bourbon gives it just the right kick.
