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Home » Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Recipe: A Holiday Treat

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Recipe: A Holiday Treat

November 27, 2024 Desserts, Drinks, Homemade Recipes, Winter

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Warm up this holiday season with a gingerbread hot chocolate recipe that combines the rich flavors of gingerbread spice and creamy hot cocoa.

Holiday-themed table setting with a clear glass mug of gingerbread hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, a gingerbread mug, cinnamon sticks, and a plate of gingerbread cookies on a festive lace tablecloth.

This festive drink is the perfect cozy treat to enjoy during the winter months, whether you’re snuggled by the fire or hosting a holiday gathering.

This gingerbread hot chocolate recipe is a must-have for the holiday season, combining the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread spice with the creamy indulgence of hot cocoa.

The addition of blackstrap molasses, brown sugar, and warm spices like ground cinnamon creates a rich and comforting drink that embodies the festive spirit.

We love serving this drink during the Christmas season alongside sourdough gingerbread cookies or topping it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.

Close-up of a gingerbread mug and a clear glass mug with gingerbread hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows, placed on a holiday-themed lace tablecloth.

Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it alone, this drink is perfect for the winter months.

For more holiday drinks, try our Spicy Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe or Pumpkin Spice Latte. Both are festive additions to your morning coffee routine and celebrate the best of the holiday spirit.

Why You Will Love This Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Recipe

  • Festive and comforting – This drink is perfect for cozy winter evenings.
  • Quick and easy – Whip it up in a small saucepan in under 10 minutes.
  • Customizable – Add whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a personal touch.

This recipe is a must-try because it combines nostalgic holiday flavors with the creamy indulgence of hot chocolate, making it an irresistible treat for the season.

Tips for Making Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

  • Use fresh spices – Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger lose potency over time, so use fresh spices for the best flavor.
  • Make it richer – Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream for an ultra-creamy texture.
  • Add creative toppings – Try frothed milk, mini marshmallows, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  • Make a big batch – Use a slow cooker to keep the hot chocolate warm for holiday gatherings.

Recipe FAQs

What are the best spices for gingerbread hot chocolate?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove are the best spices for creating a warm and festive gingerbread flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute whole milk and cream with oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a creamy and delicious vegan option.

A holiday-inspired photo showcasing a mug of gingerbread hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows in a clear glass mug, accompanied by a gingerbread-shaped mug and decorated gingerbread cookies on a festive lace background. Text overlay reads, "Gingerbread Hot Chocolate."

How can I make it thicker?

For a thicker consistency, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to the milk mixture before heating.

Can I use a store-bought hot chocolate mix?

Absolutely! Enhance the flavor by adding gingerbread spice or a drizzle of homemade gingerbread syrup.

Tools you may need

  • Small Dutch Oven – Ideal for heating the ingredients evenly over medium heat.
  • Whisk – Perfect for blending the ingredients to a smooth consistency.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for precise measurements
Overhead view of gingerbread hot chocolate ingredients, neatly arranged on a red and white lace tablecloth. Ingredients include cocoa powder, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, gingerbread-shaped cookies, and various small bowls with spices and syrups.

Ingredients You Will Need to Make Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

  • Whole milk and heavy whipping cream: These form the creamy base for this indulgent drink.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: Creates a rich chocolatey flavor.
  • Molasses: Adds depth and the signature gingerbread flavor.
  • Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall richness of the drink.

A full list of ingredients with exact amounts is available in the recipe card below.

Top-down view of two mugs of gingerbread hot chocolate—one in a gingerbread-themed mug and the other in a clear glass mug topped with marshmallows—accompanied by gingerbread cookies on a red and white lace tablecloth.

How to Make Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, blackstrap molasses, brown sugar, spices, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 2: Heat on Medium

Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently, until it’s warm and steaming. Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 3: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug. Garnish with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a gingerbread man cookie for an extra festive touch.

Festive holiday setting featuring a gingerbread mug filled with hot chocolate and a clear glass mug topped with mini marshmallows. A plate of decorated gingerbread cookies sits in the background on a red and white lace tablecloth.

Storage Ideas for Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm on the stove over low heat, whisking occasionally.
  • Freeze for Later: Pour cooled hot chocolate into ice cube trays. Blend the frozen cubes with warm milk when ready to enjoy.

For even more delicious, homemade treats, explore our favorite cozy recipes below;

  • Soft Sourdough Gingerbread Cookies for Christmas
  • Cozy Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe (Starbucks Inspired)
  • 🍎 Mrs. Bean’s Sourdough Nutmeg Ginger Apple Snaps Recipe 🍎
  • 🍏🍎🥧Homemade Sourdough Apple Pie with Cinnamon (How To)🥧🍏🍎
  • 🥧Best Sourdough Pie Crust Recipe: Flaky + Buttery🥧


If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be so grateful if you left a 5 ⭐️ rating — it helps others discover it and fall in love with baking it too.

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Wide shot of a cozy holiday scene featuring gingerbread hot chocolate served in a clear glass mug and a gingerbread mug, surrounded by cinnamon sticks and festive gingerbread cookies on a red and white lace tablecloth.

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Recipe: Cozy Holiday Treat

By Emily Rider
5 from 1 vote
This gingerbread hot chocolate recipe combines festive gingerbread spice with creamy cocoa for the perfect cozy holiday drink. Whether you're sipping it by the fire or serving it at your Christmas gatherings, this warm and indulgent treat is a seasonal favorite. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it's the ultimate holiday comfort in a mug.
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Prep Time 3 minutes mins
Cook Time 3 minutes mins
Total Time 3 minutes mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 1 cup
Calories 343 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups whole milk or use any milk you prefer
  • 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 teaspoons molasses old-fashioned, not blackstrap
  • 8 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 tablespoons light brown sugar
  • 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger or 1 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 4 teaspoons pure maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt
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How To Make

  • Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the dairy milk, vanilla extract, molasses, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, maple syrup, and salt.
  • Heat on Medium Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Avoid letting it boil.
  • Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into four mugs. Top each with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a gingerbread man cookie for a festive touch.
  • Enjoy this cozy gingerbread hot chocolate with friends and family for a heartwarming winter treat!

Notes

  • Experiment with toppings: Add chocolate chips, marshmallows, or even a drizzle of gingerbread syrup.
  • Make it richer: Substitute half the milk with heavy cream for a creamier texture.
  • Use fresh spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg lose flavor over time, so fresh spices will give the best results.
  • Control the sweetness: Adjust the sugar and molasses to suit your taste.
  • Try a slow cooker: Make a large batch for a party by mixing the ingredients in a slow cooker on low heat.
  • Nutrition

    Serving: 1gCalories: 343kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 10gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 146mgFiber: 4gSugar: 45g
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