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Creamy Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

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This creamy gingerbread hot chocolate blends rich cocoa, molasses, and warming spices for a festive, comforting winter drink. It’s quick to make, ultra-smooth, and perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
  • Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
  • Cinnamon sticks or crystallized ginger (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pour whole milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Set over medium heat and warm gently for 2-3 minutes, just until tiny bubbles form around the edge. Do not let it boil.
  2. Whisk in unsweetened cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips. Stir constantly until chocolate melts and mixture looks smooth and glossy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add molasses, brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until spices blend in and sugar dissolves, about 1 minute.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring often. Do not let it boil. The mixture should thicken slightly but remain pourable.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if desired.
  6. Ladle hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or crystallized ginger if desired.

Notes

For dairy-free, use oat milk and coconut cream. Sift cocoa powder for extra smoothness. Taste as you go—ginger can be spicy. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently. For a crowd, double the recipe and use a larger pot. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels for allergens.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread hot chocolate, winter drink, cozy beverage, festive hot chocolate, holiday recipe, creamy hot chocolate, spiced hot chocolate, gluten-free hot chocolate, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://avabake.com/creamy-gingerbread-hot-chocolate-recipe-for-cozy-winter-nights/