Baileys Hot Chocolate

This Baileys hot chocolate recipe is the ultimate cozy indulgence, blending rich, creamy chocolate with smooth Baileys Irish cream. The Dutch-processed cocoa and chopped semisweet chocolate come together to create a deep, luxurious chocolate flavor, while a splash of Baileys gives it a warm, boozy kick. It’s the perfect sip for holiday gatherings, chilly nights in front of the TV, or anytime you need a comforting treat.

This hot chocolate recipe is the perfect drink to keep your spirits bright, and can be customized with festive garnishes like whipped cream, chocolate sauce and crushed candy canes. Use our tips and twists to make your hot chocolate drink experience memorable and deliciously Instagram-worthy!

Baileys Hot Chocolate Ingredients

• Whole milk: Whole milk provides a rich, creamy base that enhances the hot chocolate’s texture. Its fat content gives it a lush, velvety quality that makes it ideal for hot chocolate. For a lighter option, you can substitute 2% milk.
• Dutch-processed cocoa: Dutch-processed cocoa is treated with an alkalizing agent to neutralize its acidity, resulting in a smoother, milder flavor than regular cocoa. It gives hot chocolate a deep, intense flavor without the sharp bitterness you might get from natural cocoa powder. A brand like Ghirardelli is reliable for its high quality and rich, dark color, which often indicates a fuller flavor.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the hot chocolate, but more importantly, it balances the intense cocoa and chocolate flavors. For a slightly caramelized flavor, try swapping in light brown sugar.
• Semisweet chocolate: Semisweet chocolate adds depth and a rich chocolate taste that elevates this drink to a truly indulgent experience. Go for high-quality chocolate bars; they melt more smoothly than chocolate chips. Aim for around 50% to 60% cocoa.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a warm, sweet note that enhances the chocolate and balances the overall flavor. A small amount of the best pure vanilla extract (as opposed to artificial vanilla flavoring) makes a noticeable difference in taste.
• Baileys Irish cream: Enter the star of the show! Irish cream adds its signature smooth, creamy flavor with a little kick of Irish whiskey. For a classic cup, stick with the original Baileys, whip up homemade Irish cream, or check out the Costco Irish cream everyone raves about.
• Garnishes: Top the drink with whipped cream, chocolate sauce and crushed candy canes for extra festive flavor. Canned whipped cream works fine, but homemade whipped cream adds a fresh, airy texture. Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for additional richness. Crushed candy canes provide a holiday-inspired crunch and a refreshing hint of mint, making the drink perfect for winter gatherings. Look for holiday packs of candy canes, or consider peppermint bark as an alternative garnish.

Directions

Step 1: Heat the milk and cocoa

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In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cocoa and sugar.

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Bring them to a simmer and cook until they’re heated through and well combined, two to three minutes.

Editor’s Tip: Don’t scald the milk! If your burner is too hot, the milk can burn, and even slightly burnt milk will ruin hot chocolate.

Step 2: Melt the chocolate

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Add the semisweet chocolate and stir until it has melted, one to two minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat.

Step 3: Spike it and add a garnish

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Add the Irish cream liqueur. Pour the Baileys hot chocolate into mugs and garnish them as desired.

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Baileys Hot Chocolate Variations

• Make it a mocha: Pull a shot of espresso and pour it into your hot chocolate and Baileys, or shake everything with ice for a twist on an espresso martini with Baileys.
• A hint of mint: Add a splash of peppermint extract or peppermint-flavored Baileys for a refreshing, minty twist. (Baileys can be found in a salted caramel flavor, too! Yum!)
• Make it vegan: For a lighter, nondairy version, use coconut milk, oat milk or almond milk and choose dairy-free dark chocolate. Baileys even makes a vegan version of its Irish cream called Almande.

How to Store Baileys Hot Chocolate

If you have leftovers, allow the hot chocolate to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat Baileys hot chocolate, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving, which may affect the texture.

Can you make Baileys hot chocolate ahead of time?

Yes, you can make a big batch in advance! Stick to the ratio of this Baileys hot chocolate recipe and use a stockpot to heat it. Keep it warm in a slow cooker on the warm setting and stir it occasionally. For a cute serving idea, thrift some different patterned teacups and saucers so each guest has a unique, vintage sip.

Baileys Hot Chocolate Tips

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Can you make Baileys hot chocolate with instant cocoa?

Yes! Instant cocoa can be an excellent time-saver. Prepare the cocoa according to the package instructions and add a splash of Baileys for a quick, comforting treat.

How else can you serve Baileys hot chocolate?

You can garnish Baileys and hot chocolate to match any occasion. There are countless creative mix-ins for hot chocolate. For a holiday look, dip the mug’s rim in melted chocolate (chocolate syrup comes in handy here, too) and roll it in crushed candy canes. Add chocolate shavings, a dash of cocoa powder, or a cinnamon stick for a decadent touch.