This Eggnog Hot Chocolate is a warm hug in a mug! It’s rich and creamy, blending cozy chocolate flavors with the festive taste of eggnog—perfect for chilly days.
You know it’s good when it feels like a holiday party in your cup! I love topping it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra cheer—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggnog: You can use store-bought eggnog for convenience, or try making your own! If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider low-fat or dairy-free eggnog alternatives such as almond or oat milk eggnog.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa adds a rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer something sweeter, you can use sweetened cocoa mix. Just adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.
Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess, but you can substitute with any milk you prefer, such as almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. The flavor might change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and holiday flavor. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can skip it or use allspice as a substitute for a similar taste.
How Do I Achieve Smooth and Creamy Hot Chocolate?
Getting a smooth texture is key to a perfect hot chocolate. Start by mixing dry ingredients like cocoa powder, sugar, and spices in the saucepan. This helps in blending without lumps. When adding eggnog and milk, whisk continuously as you pour to create a silky mixture.
- Heat gently over medium without boiling, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.
- Remove from heat just before it reaches a boil and then stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely aroma.
These steps will help you serve comforting Eggnog Hot Chocolate that’s perfectly creamy and rich!
How to Make Eggnog Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3-4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Cinnamon sticks (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Eggnog Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and heat, making it a quick and easy treat to whip up. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these ingredients first helps ensure there are no lumps in your hot chocolate.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Slowly pour in the eggnog and whole milk, whisking continuously as you mix. This will help to create a smooth blend without any lumps. Make sure everything is well combined before moving to the heat.
3. Heat the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Warm the mixture, stirring frequently, until it gets hot but does not boil. You want to be careful not to let it boil, as that can change the texture and flavor.
4. Add Flavor:
Once heated, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your hot chocolate.
5. Serve:
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, filling them generously. It’s rich and creamy, so there’s plenty to enjoy!
6. Top and Garnish:
Finish each mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream on top. For that festive touch, sprinkle a little extra ground nutmeg over the whipped cream. You can also add a cinnamon stick for stirring and a delightful aroma while drinking.
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, cozy Eggnog Hot Chocolate! Perfect for sipping while curled up by the fireplace or sharing with friends at a holiday gathering.
This recipe yields about 2 generous servings, making it an ideal festive drink for cozy moments. Cheers!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk or Alternatives?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with low-fat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor of the hot chocolate.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this dairy-free by using a dairy-free eggnog and any plant-based milk, like almond milk or coconut milk. Just check the labels to ensure there are no hidden dairy ingredients!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hot chocolate mixture in advance. Just warm it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. If you’re making it ahead, hold off on adding the whipped cream until you’re ready to serve to keep it from getting soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. If it’s too thick after refrigerating, you can add a splash of milk to return it to your desired consistency.