This post is sponsored by North Forest Kreme, but all statements and opinions are my own. Must be 21+ to purchase. Please drink responsibly

This boozy bourbon hot chocolate is spiked with a secret ingredient, North Forest Kreme™ Walnut, which adds a luxurious layer of buttery walnut flavor to an outrageously comforting cup of cocoa. Grab yourself a cup and cozy up in front of the fireplace, and let each silky sip bring you and your loved ones some well earned holiday cheer.

What alcohol pairs best with hot chocolate?

Bourbon whisky is a classic addition to hot chocolate, but brandy is also equally well suited to craft spiked hot chocolate. However, there is no reason you need to stop there. Cream liqueurs add a wonderfully silky texture to the drink while taking the flavor to a whole new level entirely.

North Forest Kreme™ Walnut Liqueur is soon to be your not so secret weapon when crafting cocoas that will have your family and friends raving. The buttery and nutty flavor plays exceptionally well with bourbon and chocolate while adding that little something you never knew was missing! It is not only great mixed in hot chocolate, it is perfect to savour on the rocks, or simply straight up.

How to make hot chocolate?

The best hot chocolate cocktail deserves the best hot chocolate, right? For that, we make the hot chocolate from scratch which ensures the deepest chocolate flavor and the silkiest texture. I swear, it is like drinking liquid gold, except chocolate flavored, and not nearly as scalding as drinking liquid metals. OK, maybe that was a terrible analogy.

We are using my homemade hot chocolate recipe as a base for this boozy drink. To craft the hot chocolate, begin by melting two ounces of semisweet chocolate in a saucepan with ¼ cup of milk. Whisk this well to combine.

In a separate pan, add a separated egg yolk and heat on low to cook it while whisking. Your goal is to heat it without it curdling. If it does curdle, just toss it out and grab a new egg.

Once the yolk is heated, the melted chocolate mixture can be combined with the yolk and whisked together. At this time, an additional ¾ cup of milk can be added to finish the drink.

A creamy cup of cocoa is great to enjoy on its own, however, I add a dash of bitters and a squeeze of orange to liven this drink up, however, this is optional. Bitters add an edge to the drink, while a lively punch of citrus wakes up the flavors!

Can I use a hot cocoa mix?

Yes, absolutely you can use a packet of hot cocoa mix, however, your cocoa will be considerably creamier if you make it from scratch, but I understand you don't always want to mess around with that. If using cocoa from a packet I recommend buying a premium brand of hot chocolate as it will have better flavor and texture.

More ways to flavor hot cocoa

North Forest Kreme™ Walnut isn't the only exceptional addition to cocoa. There are a variety of North Forest Kremes that are begging for your experimentation. My top suggestions for mixing with hot cocoa would be the Peppermint Kreme, Maple Bourbon Pecan, and Huckleberry Vanilla. These can be added with bourbon or brandy, or simply used on their own without the stronger spirits.

There are six flavors of North Forest Kremes available just waiting for your experimentation. Enjoy them all as the official drink of sweater weather!