How to Make the Perfect Hot Chocolate with Baileys
Looking for the perfect Baileys hot chocolate recipe as you countdown to Christmas? We’re bringing you several ways to make a gourmet hot chocolate with Baileys—the most indulgently creamy thick hot chocolate you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting. Whether you’ve got a fancy machine and like to make a velvetiser hot chocolate or you’re trying to keep it simple with a microwave and cocoa powder, we’ll take you through the steps to create your own deliciously decadent Baileys hot chocolate, with variations that’ll make your taste buds tingle this festive season.
Nothing beats a cup of homemade hot chocolate…well, except for our very indulgent variations on a classic. But before we get into the recipes, let’s get a few things covered…
How to heat up milk for hot chocolate?
Whether it’s dairy free (such as oat or almond milk) or traditional whole milk, follow these instructions to get your milk warming up, ready to be transformed into the perfect hot chocolate.
The key is to take it slow and steady.
In a saucepan: Gently heat your milk until bubbles form around the edge and steam begins to rise. Stir frequently to avoid a filmy layer.
In the microwave: For one mug of milk, start with a minute on medium heat so you don’t overboil it.
In the slow cooker: If you’re not in a rush, why not try this slow cooker hot chocolate with Baileys recipe? Throw your ingredients together and in an hour you’ll have an irresistibly chocolatey treat for you and your guests.
In a hot chocolate machine: Now you’re just showing off! Follow the instructions on your hot chocolate kettle or milk frother, and revel in your dedication to hot chocolate.
Can I make hot chocolate with a chocolate bar?
Absolutely! We like your thinking. If you’re out of cocoa powder, or simply want an extra rich, chocolatey drink, read on.
What type of chocolate bar should you use to make your hot chocolate? 70%+ cocoa solids is preferable, if you want a richer, earthier taste, that you can always sweeten up afterwards with maple syrup or vanilla extract. Milk chocolate will give you a sweeter, creamier drink. Some might say darker chocolate is more sophisticated… we say, it’s completely up to you.
While your milk’s heating up, chop up your chocolate bar into small, even-sized pieces. Add them to 100ml of heated milk (see our methods above) and whisk vigorously until the mixture turns glossy. Add the rest of the heated milk to taste, and throw in some double cream and chocolate chips if you fancy, too. Thick, velvety, delicious.
What liquors go well with hot chocolate?
Glad you asked! If we’re talking liqueurs, then of course you can add Baileys to hot chocolate! We recommend around 50ml of Baileys Original Irish Cream to one standard mug. Make sure you leave room for plenty of whipped cream.
For alternative options, then rum, brandy, or whisky gives your hot chocolate into a very grown-up drink with a bit of a kick.
What’s the best gourmet hot chocolate?
Craving something luxuriously thick and creamy? An Italian hot chocolate is a delicious choice. An Italian hot chocolate recipe combines dark chocolate, milk, salt and a little cornstarch to create that famous thick texture. Prefer deep, bitter-sweet richness? Sip a French style hot chocolate. The Parisian hot chocolate mixes real dark chocolate with milk and cream for a richly smooth warm drink. But of course, the best gourmet hot chocolate – and maybe we’re biased – is a Baileys hot chocolate. If you want to discover how to make thick hot chocolate with a Baileys twist, take a look at our easy recipe below.
How to make hot chocolate with Baileys
The very best, silky smooth hot chocolate recipe: simple, quick, and indulgent. Best enjoyed curled up at home.
Directions
STEP ONE
Gently heat your choice of milk (we recommend whole milk, but whatever floats your boat!) in a saucepan or the microwave.
STEP TWO
Whisk in your cocoa powder or chopped chocolate, until you have a smooth, glossy texture. Add more milk if it’s too thick.
STEP THREE
Pour the heated mixture into your mug(s). Add 50ml of Baileys Original Irish Cream, and stir.
STEP FOUR
Now it’s time for toppings… dollop on some whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
STEP FIVE
Stand back and admire. Then grab a spoon and dig in.
Want to make an iced hot chocolate?
Here’s a secret: this hot chocolate recipe isn’t only for the cold winter months. Instead of cosying up with a cup of homemade hot chocolate on the sofa, you can sip this in place of a milkshake—we like to think of it as an elevated milkshake with a sophisticated twist. Iced, iced, baby!
The good news is, you just need to blend your ingredients with ice! Instead of heating your milk, throw everything into a blender with some ice, whizz it all up, and ta-da. Feeling fancy? Add a couple of drops of vanilla extract and a dash of Baileys for a sweet and indulgent twist.
Don’t have a blender? Just whisk everything together and add ice so it’s nice and cold. Top with whipped cream and enjoy.
Let’s add some flavour
Now you’ve mastered your homemade hot chocolate, you can start getting creative with new flavours.
Spice it up: Our Mexican hot chocolate, made with unsweetened cocoa powder, cinnamon, and chilli, will warm you up on a winter’s day.
Chai five: The festive flavours in chai work beautifully with Baileys to create a subtly spicy winter warmer. Add your chai spice blend or syrup while heating your milk—bam, it’s a chai hot chocolate.
Peppermint: A delightful addition to your festive repertoire, all you need to do to pack a peppermint punch is add a few drops of peppermint extract. Best served with a dollop of cream and a jolly sprig of mint.
Perfect festive occasions for a hot chocolate
First Festive Music Nights
Whether it’s a Christmas carol or a retro Christmas number one hit, warm up your vocal cords with our classic Baileys Hot Chocolate.
Festive Movie Days
Snuggle up with a warm blanket, start your favourite Christmas movie and sip our decadent Bailey’s Hot Chocolate & Churros.
Fitting the Christmas Lights
Decorating the tree is an occasion that deserves an indulgent festive drink – so why not whip up a Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini.
The Christmas lights switch-on
After a long day of Christmas shopping, grab a Baileys Espresso Hot Chocolate and head out to enjoy your town’s magical Christmas lights.