Butterscotch Schnapps Spiked Hot Chocolate
Boozy hot chocolate blending cocoa powder and sugar with spiced rum and butterscotch schnapps. Milk is heated and stirred into the cocoa base, then fortified with spirits and vanilla. Optional orange bitters add complexity. Topped with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, and a cinnamon stick or candy cane garnish.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 dash salt
- ½ cup milk
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ oz spiced rumdark rum1:1spirit
neutral swap
- 1 ½ oz butterscotch schnappsbutterscotch liqueur1:1spirit
flavor match
- orange bitters(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Mix cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a large mug.
- 2
Heat milk on stovetop until hot, or microwave on high until hot.
- 3
Gradually add hot milk to cocoa mixture, stirring until well blended.
- 4
Add vanilla extract, rum, and schnapps to the hot chocolate.
- 5
Add orange bitters if using, stir well.
- 6
Top with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or candy cane.
Tips
Stir cocoa mixture gradually when adding hot milk to avoid lumps.
Adjust spirit ratios to taste preference for sweetness or alcohol intensity.
Good to Know
Prepare cocoa-sugar mixture in advance and store in airtight container. Assemble drink fresh to serve.
Mix dry cocoa, sugar, and salt up to 1 week ahead in an airtight container.
Serve immediately while hot. Whipped cream and toppings should be added just before serving.
Common Mistakes
Add hot milk gradually and stir constantly to avoid lumps in cocoa mixture.
Do not skip vanilla extract to avoid flat chocolate flavor.
Heat milk until steaming to avoid tepid final drink.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
flavor match