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    Home » Beverages » Cocktails » Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate

    Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate

    Published: Jan 28, 2025 by Linda Warren

    Jump to Recipe

    Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate is the perfect drink to wrap your hands around on a cold day. This rich hot chocolate is flavored with cinnamon, sweetened with marshmallows, then kicked up a notch with coffee tequila.

    Two mugs of Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate with straws.

    Warm winter cocktails

    There is nothing better or more comforting this time of year than a mug of hot chocolate that you can wrap your hands around. And one that has a little something extra in it just makes it even better.

    And when it comes to warm winter cocktails you can't miss with these favorites - rich and creamy Irish Coffee, spicy Spiked Hot Apple Cider, and for everyone in love with peanut butter and chocolate, this Buckeye Latte Cocktail.

    What is Mexican hot chocolate?

    Mexican hot chocolate isn’t your average cup of cocoa, it’s a whole experience. Unlike regular hot chocolate, which is usually sweet and mild, traditional Mexican hot chocolate is all about bold flavors and a touch of spice.

    It’s traditionally made with dark chocolate, cinnamon, sugar, and sometimes ground chiles or cayenne pepper for the perfect amount of heat. This gives it a deeper, more complex flavor compared to regular hot chocolate.

    What does Mexican hot chocolate taste like?

    Mexican hot chocolate is rich and chocolatey, with a hint of cinnamon and, depending on the recipe, a subtle kick of spice.

    If you’re wondering, “Is Mexican hot chocolate spicy?” the answer is, it depends! If chili powder or cayenne is added, it’ll have a mild heat that warms you from the inside out. Otherwise, it’s more about the aromatic cinnamon and the deeper chocolate flavor.

    Overhead of spiked hot chocolate with whipped cream.

    Why you’ll love this recipe

    This spiked hot chocolate isn’t just a drink, it’s a flavor experience! Whether you’re sipping by the fire or serving up mugs to friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

    A spicy-sweet twist on tradition: The cinnamon and cocoa combo adds a layer of warmth you didn’t know you needed.

    Boozy perfection: Tequila takes this hot chocolate to tasty new heights. Regular tequila or coffee tequila can be used.

    So creamy, so dreamy: Half and half, milk, and melted marshmallows create a luscious, silky texture.

    Easy to customize: Whether you’re dairy-free, a Bailey’s fan, or love a little extra cinnamon, this recipe has you covered.

    Party-ready: It’s simple to make for a crowd, and your guests can add their favorite garnishes to make it their own!

    Ingredients

    This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together for the ultimate indulgence:

    Ingredients for Mexican Hot Chocolate with tequila.
    • Dark cocoa powder: Adds an intense, rich chocolate flavor.
    • Water: Helps dissolve the cocoa powder for a smooth base.
    • Milk: For creamy, dreamy goodness. Whole milk will make it richer but 2% also works well.
    • Half and half: Adds extra richness and silky texture.
    • Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts beautifully into the drink for that deep chocolatey flavor.
    • Mini marshmallows: Melt into the hot chocolate, adding sweetness and creaminess.
    • Vanilla extract: A hint of warmth that enhances the chocolate.
    • Cinnamon: Adds a touch of spice and the signature flavor of Mexican hot chocolate.
    • Coffee tequila: The star ingredient! Patron XO Cafe Tequila is recommended for its smooth coffee flavor.
    • Garnishes: Whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and chocolate syrup make this drink party-perfect.

    How to make Mexican hot chocolate with tequila

    Making this Mexican Hot Chocolate cocktail is as easy as whisk, simmer, and sip! Here's what to do:

    Prep steps for Mexican Hot Chocolate recipe.
    1. Combine water and cocoa powder in a small saucepan. Whisk to mix and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
    2. Whisk in milk and half and half. Return to a simmer.
    3. Add chocolate chips and marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted.
    4. Remove saucepan from heat and add vanilla extract, cinnamon, and tequila if using. Stir well.
    Two mugs of Mexican hot chocolate with tequila bottle in back.

    Pour into mugs and garnish with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and a cinnamon stick.

    Recipe variations to make it your own

    This recipe is already fantastic, but here are some ways to change it up:

    • Dairy-free delight: Swap the milk and half and half for almond, oat, or coconut milk.
    • Switch up the booze: Try rum, whiskey, or vodka instead of tequila.
    • Add Bailey’s: For an extra creamy, boozy twist.
    • Coffee vibes: Use Kahlua for the same coffee flavor but without tequila.
    • Cinnamon overload: Use Fireball whiskey for a cinnamon explosion.
    • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for that authentic Mexican hot chocolate kick.
    • Keep it kid-friendly: Skip the booze entirely and let the kids in on the fun.

    Spiked Hot Chocolate for a Crowd

    Hosting a party? This recipe is easily scaled up for a crowd! Make a big batch and put it in a Crockpot slow cooker on low to keep it warm. Set up a garnish bar with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, marshmallows, and chocolate syrup or shavings so guests can customize their mugs. It’s the ultimate winter party drink!

    More Hot Chocolate Recipes

    • Peppermint Hot Chocolate topped with whipped cream and candy canes.
    • Salted Caramel Hot chocolate made with melted ice cream
    • Kahlua Hot Chocolate topped with marshmallows, chocolate, and caramel.
    • Kahlua Hot Chocolate Cookies with marshmallows.
    • Hot Chocolate Cupcakes with marshmallow frosting.

    Find lots more winter cocktails here on 2CM!

    LOVE QUICK & EASY RECIPES? FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, & PINTEREST FOR ALL THE LATEST RECIPE INSPIRATION! PLUS JOIN MY EMAIL LIST AND RECEIVE A FREE E-BOOK.

    Closeup of mug of Mexican Hot Chocolate with garnish of whipped cream.

    Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate

    The perfect cocktail for a cold night to wrap your hands around. Rich hot chocolate is flavored with cinnamon, sweetened with marshmallows, then kicked up with coffee tequila.
    No ratings yet
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    Course: Drinks
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Servings: 2 servings
    Calories: 490kcal
    Author: Linda Warren

    Ingredients

    • 1 ½ Tablespoons dark cocoa powder
    • ⅜ cup water
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 cup half and half
    • ⅓ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • ½ cup mini marshmallows
    • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
    • ⅛-1/4 cup Patron XO Cafe Coffee Tequila (optional)
    • Optional garnishes: whipped cream, chocolate syrup, cinnamon stick

    Instructions

    • In a small saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder and water and bring to a simmer.
    • Pour in milk and half and half while continuing to whisk and bring back to a simmer.
    • Add chocolate chips and marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
    • Remove from heat and add extract, cinnamon and Patron, if using.
    • Divide between 2 mugs. Top with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick and a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate syrup.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 490kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 136mg | Potassium: 572mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 642IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 307mg | Iron: 3mg

    This post has been updated with new photos and more helpful information. It was first published on January 8, 2017.

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    Hey, I’m Linda, the recipe creator, photographer and cocktail lover at 2 Cookin Mamas. Here you’ll find easy recipes that are not only delicious but can get you out of the kitchen ASAP. Come and join me and let me take you on a tasty trip through your kitchen. Thanks for stopping by! Learn more about me

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