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How to make an alcoholic hot chocolate with Beefeater Gin

Hot chocolate season is officially here! As the weather turns frosty, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of this winter classic. Whether you’re curled up watching Christmas films, decorating the tree, or hosting friends for a festive catch-up, a cup of hot cocoa is everyone’s favourite festive treat.

But what if we told you there’s a way to make it even better! Enter the boozy hot chocolate, the ultimate seasonal drink that blends your favourite childhood treat with a grown-up twist. Rich, creamy, and with just the right amount of a spiked kick, it’s the perfect way to warm up and add a little extra cheer to your winter celebrations.

Here we’ve put together everything you need to know to make an indulgent, adults-only hot chocolate with Beefeater Gin, plus some fun ideas to make it your own.

The best alcohol for hot chocolate

When it comes to adults only hot chocolate, the possibilities are endless. Different spirits can transform the flavour, adding extra warmth and depth to this classic winter treat. Here are some of the most popular options:

Gin: The botanicals in gin—like juniper and citrus—add a delicious seasonal twist, enhancing the drink’s flavour without overpowering the creamy chocolate.
Chocolate liqueur: If you like things extra chocolatey, adding some rich liqueur is a sure way to pump up the rich, creamy flavours.
Whisky: A smoky or peaty whisky can balance the sweetness of chocolate with a bold, warming kick.
Spiced rum: Spiced rum complements hot chocolate’s creamy texture and brings a festive, holiday-ready warmth.
Irish cream: Luxuriously smooth, Irish cream blends seamlessly with chocolate for a sweet, dessert-like experience that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

While we might be biased, gin is a game-changer for boozy hot chocolate. Its crisp, botanical profile pairs perfectly with rich chocolate. And if you think about it, the individual flavours of gin are quite festive themselves. Think bold juniper notes, woody liquorice, soft spices, orange and almond.

Plus with so many flavoured gins to explore—like Beefeater Blood Orange or Beefeater Pink Strawberry—you can create a unique drink every time. Gin is also super versatile, making it easy to customise with every kind of festive syrup or garnish.

Top tips for making aN ALCOHOLIC hot chocolate

Making the perfect boozy hot chocolate is actually super easy. Whether you’re whipping up a solo treat or serving a crowd, here’s how to nail it:

Choose your base
Start with your favourite milk—anything from classic whole milk to almond or coconut milk for added flavour. For an ultra-indulgent serve, use cream for a thicker texture.
Pick your chocolate
Use high-quality hot chocolate powder or melt your favourite chocolate bar into warm milk for a rich, velvety base. Dark chocolate works well for a more bittersweet option, while white chocolate adds a creamy twist.
Add your alcohol
Stir in a measure of Beefeater London Dry Gin (or your chosen spirit). You can also experiment with flavoured gins and liqueurs for a fruity twist.
Customise the flavours
Add syrups or liqueurs to enhance the flavour. Gingerbread syrup is a festive favourite, but caramel, hazelnut or orange syrup work just as well.
Top it off
Set up a toppings bar for friends with bowls of marshmallows, whipped cream, crumbled biscuits, chocolate flakes, and even crushed candy canes. It’s a fun way to let everyone personalise their drink.
Experiment with the method
Make it on the stove for a quick serve or try a slow cooker for a no-fuss option when hosting. A slow cooker also keeps the hot chocolate warm for refills—perfect for your festive parties!

Our best GIN hot chocolate recipes

Ready to get creative? Here are three delicious recipes to try using Beefeater Gin. Each one offers a fun twist on the classic hot chocolate.

A hot chocolate cocktail isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting an adults-only holiday party, enjoying a quiet night in, or celebrating festive traditions with loved ones, this indulgent treat is all about creating moments of warmth and joy.

Grab your favourite mug, gather your friends, and make a night of it. Cheers to spiked hot chocolate and all the festive memories to come!

Fancy making more festive drinks? Discover our favourite winter gin cocktails as well as the best hot gin drinks to warm you up this season.