When the holiday countdown clock clicks faster every minute, it seems almost impossible to appreciate the little things. For the team at Don Bacon Appliance Service one of our favorite “little things” is a steaming cup of rich, hot chocolate. So for days otherwise filled with shopping, decorating and wrapping, we hope our favorite gourmet hot chocolate recipes can turn a little thing into something special.
Gourmet Hot Chocolate Recipes to
Soothe the Holiday Spirit
While we’re not knocking the powdered chocolate packets of our youth, our gourmet hot chocolate recipes are simply a level above. With all the comforting magic of good chocolate and some unique flavors, here’s how to make hot chocolate better in the spare minutes you have.
#1 Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate
We know the passion of a pumpkin spice lover can’t be contained to autumn. But who knew that the warm spicy tones of cinnamon and nutmeg could balance chocolate’s sweetness so deliciously? We believe this is one of those gourmet hot chocolate recipes that can make a pumpkin spice lover out of the biggest chocoholic.
Ingredients:
- Milk
- Pumpkin Puree
- Maple Syrup
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Don’t let the pumpkin puree scare you; it melts beautifully into the simmering milk to create a thick and luscious drink. Just remember to switch the heat to low after bringing the milk to a simmer so the pumpkin doesn’t burn.
Photo Credit: Julies Eats and Treats
#2 Kahlua Hot Chocolate
There are some days during the holiday season when you need a little something extra to restore your holiday spirit. This spiked hot chocolate has a shot of Kahlua to make that warm, mellow feeling spread a little faster. And speaking of fast, it all comes together in less than ten minutes with just a few quality ingredients.
Ingredients:
- Kahlua coffee liqueur
- Dutch-processed unsweetened cocoa powder
- Milk
- Cinnamon
- Sugar
While the sugar, spices and cocoa powder can all be stirred into the milk while it heats, take the hot chocolate off your burner to add the Kahlua. This ensures that the alcohol doesn’t cook off and you can get the full benefit of this treat.
Photo Credit: Chungah
#3 Mexican Hot Chocolate
Sometimes a simple hot chocolate just can’t warm you up on the coldest of winter nights. That’s when we suggest a little spice in your cup with this recipe for Mexican hot chocolate. A little cayenne and chili powder and you’ll stay cozy all night long.
Ingredients:
- Milk
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Bittersweet chocolate
- Vanilla
- Chili powder
- Ground cayenne pepper
We really recommend bittersweet chocolate here instead of the typical semi-sweet. The combination with chili powder and cayenne is exceptionally rich and satisfying. If you’re concerned about the spice level, you can lessen the amounts or dilute with whipped cream.
Photo Credit: Isabel Eats
#4 French Hot Chocolate
Our gourmet hot chocolate recipes have you traveling the world but this one is for the chocolate purists out there. French hot chocolate uses high-quality bittersweet chocolate and whole milk mixed with cream to transport you to another level of chocolate appreciation. It’s intense. It’s dark. It’s everything chocolate can be.
Ingredients:
- Whole Milk
- Heavy Cream
- Bittersweet chocolate
- Powdered sugar
For a truly rich chocolate experience, you can add ½ tsp. of espresso powder while the milk and cream simmer. This only enhances the chocolate’s natural flavor. Whipped cream is also a must to smooth the intensity of this drink.
Photo Credit: Well Plated
Our list of gourmet hot chocolate recipes can not only warm your winter nights but also restore your holiday spirit. And when you’re refueled, don’t forget our list of quick holiday kitchen prep reminders. Happy Holidays from all of us at Don Bacon Appliance Service!
