This Eggnog Hot Chocolate is a cozy drink that combines rich chocolate with creamy eggnog. It’s perfect for the holidays or any chilly day!
It warms me up and puts a smile on my face. I love topping it with whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg—it’s a festive treat I can’t resist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: The star of this drink! Store-bought is convenient, especially during the holidays. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade eggnog adds a special touch. For non-dairy options, almond milk or coconut milk can be used, but the texture may change.
Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can use 2% or even oat milk for a lighter version. If you like, try adding a little cream for extra richness!
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet offers a nice balance of sweetness. If you have dark chocolate on hand, you can use that, but adjust the sugar in the recipe if you prefer it sweeter. White chocolate is an option too, for a different twist.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the flavors. If you don’t have it, almond extract can provide a unique flavor profile. Just use it sparingly!
How Can I Make Sure My Eggnog Hot Chocolate is Creamy and Delicious?
The key to achieving creamy hot chocolate is in the method. Start by gently warming the eggnog and milk together—this prevents curdling. Whisk in the chocolate chips until they melt fully; this creates a smooth texture.
- Always stir occasionally as it heats to keep it from sticking to the bottom.
- When adding the vanilla, don’t boil the mixture afterward; just warm it through.
- For an extra creamy drink, consider blending in a bit of heavy cream before serving.
Eggnog Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Drink:
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground nutmeg, for garnish
- Optional: cinnamon stick, for stirring or garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink will take about 10 minutes to prepare and serve. With a bit of warming, mixing, and topping, you’ll have a delicious Eggnog Hot Chocolate ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Eggnog and Milk:
Start by pouring the eggnog and milk into a medium saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Your goal is to warm it up until it’s hot but not boiling. We want that cozy warmth without the risk of curdling the eggnog!
2. Melt The Chocolate:
Once the mixture is hot, add the chocolate chips. Use a whisk to stir until the chips are fully melted and blended in smoothly. This will give you a rich chocolate base for your hot chocolate.
3. Add Vanilla Extract:
Stir in the vanilla extract and keep the mixture on the heat for one more minute. This step is just to ensure everything is combined well and warmed through without boiling.
4. Serve the Drink:
Carefully pour your eggnog hot chocolate into heatproof mugs or glasses. You can see the beautiful, creamy color—it’s like a warm hug in a cup!
5. Top It Off:
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Top each mug generously with whipped cream. Don’t be shy—it’s a treat after all!
6. Add a Festive Touch:
Finish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg over the whipped cream for that classic holiday flavor. For an extra treat, stir with a cinnamon stick if you’re using one. It looks great and adds more flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy, and festive flavor of your homemade Eggnog Hot Chocolate! Perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends.
This recipe yields about 2 servings, so you can cozy up with someone special or keep it all to yourself—no judgment!
Can I Substitute Store-Bought Eggnog with Homemade Eggnog?
Absolutely! Homemade eggnog can enhance the flavor and richness of your hot chocolate. Just make sure it’s well-chilled before using it in the recipe.
What Chocolate Can I Use for This Recipe?
You can use semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even dark chocolate depending on your preference. If you want something sweeter, opt for milk chocolate. For a deeper flavor, go for dark. Just adjust the amount of sugar if needed!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the hot chocolate base without the toppings and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove and add the whipped cream and nutmeg just before enjoying.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or microwave. Stir well and consider freshening it up with a little more whipped cream on top!