Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup spiced rum, or bourbon
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Mixture
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
Spices & Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- pinch kosher salt, or to taste
Toppings
- whipped cream
- cinnamon powder
- cocoa powder
Instructions
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the dark chocolate chips and butter for 45 seconds on high power. Stir well until melted and smooth. Then, whisk in the dark brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until fully combined.
- Heat Water and Mix with Rum: Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the spiced rum or bourbon carefully.
- Combine Chocolate Mixture and Water: Slowly stream the warm chocolate mixture into the hot rum and water while whisking constantly to create a smooth, rich hot chocolate.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the hot chocolate evenly between two large mugs. Top each serving generously with whipped cream, then sprinkle with cinnamon powder and cocoa powder to taste. Serve immediately for a comforting treat.
Notes
- You can substitute bourbon for spiced rum if preferred.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance for a milder or bolder kick.
- Use whole milk instead of water for an even creamier hot chocolate.
- Make sure to whisk the chocolate mixture gradually into the hot liquid to prevent lumps.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit rum and add extra vanilla.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American