Drunk Reindeer: Hot Chocolate Cocktail with Vodka, Chocolate Liqueur, and Whipped Cream Recipe
Introduction
The Drunk Reindeer is a delightful chocolatey cocktail that combines hot chocolate with vodka and chocolate liqueur for a rich, warming treat. Perfect for cozy evenings, this drink can be enjoyed either cool or warm, topped with whipped cream and festive garnishes.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces hot chocolate
- 2 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces chocolate liqueur
- 1 cherry
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Step 1: For a cool version, fill a shaker with ice and pour in the vodka and chocolate liqueur.
- Step 2: Add the hot chocolate to the shaker and shake well until chilled.
- Step 3: Strain the mixture into a glass or mug.
- Step 4: Top the drink with whipped cream.
- Step 5: Place the two cinnamon sticks on each side near the back of the glass.
- Step 6: Add the cherry into the whipped cream near the front.
- Step 7: Finish by sprinkling chocolate shavings on top and enjoy.
- Step 8: For a warm version, skip shaking. Pour vodka and chocolate liqueur directly into a glass or mug.
- Step 9: Add hot chocolate, then top with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, cherry, and chocolate shavings.
- Step 10: Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use dark or milk chocolate hot chocolate according to your preference for a richer or sweeter taste.
- For a spiced twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon powder to the whipped cream topping.
- Substitute the vodka with rum for a slightly different flavor profile.
- To make it non-alcoholic, simply omit the vodka and chocolate liqueur and enjoy a decadent spiked-free treat.
Storage
The Drunk Reindeer is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours without whipped cream or garnishes. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before adding fresh whipped cream and toppings.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the Drunk Reindeer in advance?
You can mix the vodka, chocolate liqueur, and hot chocolate ahead of time and refrigerate. However, add whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for the best presentation and taste.
What kind of chocolate liqueur should I use?
Any good-quality chocolate liqueur works well. Popular options include crème de cacao or other chocolate-flavored spirits. Choose one you enjoy drinking on its own for the best flavor.
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Drunk Reindeer: Hot Chocolate Cocktail with Vodka, Chocolate Liqueur, and Whipped Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
Drunk Reindeer is a festive and indulgent cocktail blending rich hot chocolate with vodka and chocolate liqueur, topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, cinnamon sticks, and a cherry. This drink can be served either cool, shaken with ice, or warm, poured directly and garnished, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Liquids and Spirits
- 8 ounces Hot Chocolate
- 2 ounces Vodka
- 2 ounces Chocolate Liqueur
Garnishes and Extras
- Whipped Cream (to top)
- Chocolate Shavings (to top)
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks
- 1 Cherry
Instructions
- Prepare for a Cool Serve: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in 2 ounces of vodka and 2 ounces of chocolate liqueur.
- Add Hot Chocolate: Pour 8 ounces of hot chocolate into the shaker with the spirits.
- Shake Well: Secure the shaker tight and shake vigorously to mix and chill the ingredients.
- Strain: Strain the shaken mixture into a chilled glass or mug.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Generously add whipped cream on top of the drink to create a creamy layer.
- Garnish: Insert two cinnamon sticks into the glass near the back on each side for aroma and decoration. Place one cherry on the whipped cream near the front.
- Finish with Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Enjoy Your Cool Drunk Reindeer!
- Prepare for a Warm Serve: Pour 2 ounces vodka and 2 ounces chocolate liqueur directly into a glass or mug.
- Add Hot Chocolate Warm: Pour 8 ounces hot chocolate into the glass or mug containing the alcohol.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Garnish for Warm Serve: Place the two cinnamon sticks on each side near the back inside the mug. Add a cherry to the whipped cream near the front.
- Sprinkle Chocolate Shavings: Add chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for richness.
- Enjoy Your Warm Drunk Reindeer!
Notes
- The drink can be enjoyed either chilled or warm based on preference.
- Use high-quality hot chocolate and chocolate liqueur for the best flavor.
- Shaking with ice chills the cocktail and slightly dilutes it for a smoother taste.
- The cinnamon sticks double as aromatic garnishes and stirrers.
- Chocolate shavings add an elegant touch and a hint of bittersweet taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Drunk Reindeer, Hot Chocolate Cocktail, Chocolate Vodka Drink, Holiday Cocktail, Festive Drink, Warm Cocktail, Cold Cocktail
