Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Instant Gingerbread Hot Chocolate is a cozy, spiced twist on the classic winter drink, blending rich cocoa with warm gingerbread flavors like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and molasses. Ready in minutes, it’s the perfect festive treat for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or when you crave something sweet and comforting without the wait.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cocoa powderinstant dry milk or milk powderbrown sugarground cinnamonground gingerground nutmegground cloves (optional)pinch of saltmolasseschocolate chips (optional for extra richness)hot water or milkwhipped cream (for topping, optional)
directions
In a mug, mix cocoa powder, milk powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and a pinch of salt.
Add molasses and stir to form a paste.
Pour in hot water or milk while stirring until smooth and fully combined.
Microwave for 30–60 seconds if needed to heat through and melt any chocolate chips, stirring well.
Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of spices, or mini marshmallows if desired.
Serve hot.
Servings and timing
Serves 1.Preparation time: 5 minutesTotal time: 5 minutes
Variations
Use a dairy-free milk powder for a vegan version.
Add a dash of vanilla extract for extra warmth.
Mix in a pinch of black pepper for a bold chai-like spice.
Top with crushed gingerbread cookies for a festive crunch.
storage/reheating
Combine all dry ingredients into a jar for an instant mix that stores for up to 1 month at room temperature.To reheat, microwave mixed drink or warm on the stove until steaming hot.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought hot chocolate mix?
Yes, just add spices and molasses to enhance the flavor.
Is this drink very sweet?
It’s mildly sweet with a deep molasses flavor—adjust sugar to taste.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, scale up the dry mix and store in a sealed container for easy serving.
Does it work with water or milk?
Both work, but milk gives a creamier result.
What type of molasses should I use?
Unsulfured dark molasses provides the best gingerbread flavor.
Conclusion
Instant Gingerbread Hot Chocolate is a delightful way to enjoy the festive flavors of the season in one warm, comforting mug. Quick, easy, and customizable, it’s a holiday favorite you’ll want to sip all winter long.
Print
Instant Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Instant Gingerbread Hot Chocolate is a cozy, spiced drink that blends rich cocoa with warm gingerbread flavors like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream and crushed gingersnaps for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and crushed gingersnaps, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste for a stronger or milder gingerbread flavor.
- Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a vegan version.
- Make a large batch of the dry mix and store it in a jar for instant use.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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