Cardamom Bourbon Hot Cocoa
Rich boozy hot cocoa for two with warm cardamom and bourbon. Quick to make and perfect for sharing.
- Whisk cocoa mix and cardamom with hot water, then slowly add milk and heat gently.
- Stir in bourbon just before serving to keep alcohol aroma and flavor.
- Garnish with marshmallows, shaved chocolate, or extra cardamom for a cozy finish.
Preparation Instructions:
In a small saucepan whisk together hot water, hot cocoa mix, and cardamom until they are fully incorporated together.
Slowly add milk to the pan while whisking steadily. Turn the burner on medium, and continue stirring while the milk heats up and mixes with the cocoa. Be careful not to let the mixture burn or over-boil.
When the cocoa is ready, mix in the whisky and serve in a warm mug.
Garnish with marshmallows, shaved chocolate, and a pinch of extra cardamom.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a nonalcoholic version?
Yes. Skip the bourbon and replace it with the same amount of extra milk or a splash of strong brewed coffee for depth. For a bourbon-like aroma without alcohol, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or a few drops of bourbon extract to taste.
What are good substitutes for bourbon?
Try dark rum, brandy, rye, or amaretto. Each changes the flavor: rum adds molasses notes, brandy adds fruitiness, and amaretto brings almond sweetness. Use the same amount and taste before serving.
Can I use plant-based milk instead of whole milk?
Yes. Oat or full-fat almond milk give the creamiest results. Heat plant milks gently and watch for skinning or separation. You may want a slightly richer option if you want the same mouthfeel as whole milk.
How strong is the cardamom and can I change the amount?
Ground cardamom is fragrant and can be strong. The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon for two servings. Reduce to 1/4 teaspoon if you prefer a milder spice, or lightly toast and grind whole seeds for a fresher, more complex aroma.
Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of hot cocoa mix?
Yes. For two servings, use about 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa plus 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk with the hot water to make a smooth paste, then proceed with the milk and cardamom.
Can I make it ahead and reheat later?
Yes. Make the cocoa without the bourbon, cool, and store airtight in the fridge up to 48 hours. Reheat slowly on low heat and stir in the bourbon just before serving to preserve flavor and alcohol.
Any tips for serving and garnishes?
Serve in warm mugs. Top with marshmallows, shaved chocolate, whipped cream, or a dusting of extra cardamom. A cinnamon stick or orange zest can add a bright finish.
Can I make a nonalcoholic version?
Yes. Skip the bourbon and replace it with the same amount of extra milk or a splash of strong brewed coffee for depth. For a bourbon-like aroma without alcohol, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or a few drops of bourbon extract to taste.
What are good substitutes for bourbon?
Try dark rum, brandy, rye, or amaretto. Each changes the flavor: rum adds molasses notes, brandy adds fruitiness, and amaretto brings almond sweetness. Use the same amount and taste before serving.
Can I use plant-based milk instead of whole milk?
Yes. Oat or full-fat almond milk give the creamiest results. Heat plant milks gently and watch for skinning or separation. You may want a slightly richer option if you want the same mouthfeel as whole milk.
How strong is the cardamom and can I change the amount?
Ground cardamom is fragrant and can be strong. The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon for two servings. Reduce to 1/4 teaspoon if you prefer a milder spice, or lightly toast and grind whole seeds for a fresher, more complex aroma.
Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of hot cocoa mix?
Yes. For two servings, use about 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa plus 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk with the hot water to make a smooth paste, then proceed with the milk and cardamom.
Can I make it ahead and reheat later?
Yes. Make the cocoa without the bourbon, cool, and store airtight in the fridge up to 48 hours. Reheat slowly on low heat and stir in the bourbon just before serving to preserve flavor and alcohol.
Any tips for serving and garnishes?
Serve in warm mugs. Top with marshmallows, shaved chocolate, whipped cream, or a dusting of extra cardamom. A cinnamon stick or orange zest can add a bright finish.
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