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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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 try this recipe and love it, I would love it if you could return and give it 5 stars! Share your photos and tag me on Instagram @themoderndaycottage for a chance to be featured!

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Recipe: Cozy Holiday Treat
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.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 4 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- 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
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 343Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 146mgCarbohydrates: 54gFiber: 4gSugar: 45gProtein: 10g
“The Modern Day Cottage” are not dietitians or nutritionists, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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