Its Hot chocolate week!!

Warm your senses and raise a mug! In this tasty edition, we're taking a dive into the decadent world of hot chocolate, a timeless treat with a spirited twist. It's not just for cozy evenings; this classic companion is stepping into the spotlight as a star cocktail ingredient. Get ready for a chocolaty adventure!

Did you know? Hot chocolate once swirled with red wine and spices, becoming "chocolate wine" for the European elite. Today, this humble drink is dressed up in four fabulous cocktails: Santa's Stiff Hot Chocolate, The Little Black Dress Toddy, Hot Peppermint Patty, and Peppermint Hot Chocolate. Prepare for a flavorful journey that's sure to delight!

Hot chocolate boasts a remarkable history, from the Mayan’s ancient elixir to the Aztec’s spiced delight, eventually becoming a European luxury with a sweet twist. Now, it comes alive in modern mixology, where rich textures meet inventive spirits, perfect for warming your spirit and fueling your imagination.

Along with this indulgent chocolate edition London Cocktail Week looms on the horizon, kicking off in just over a week (from the 3rd - 13th October). It's an event we never want to miss, so if you can make it down to London at some point in that time, grab yourself a wristband and experience some truly amazing cocktails and events on offer.

For now though grab a mug, a shaker, or both, as we explore this luscious world where hot meets haute! Whether you prefer classic comfort or adventurous sips, there’s a deliciously delightful drink waiting just for you. Dive into our spirited concoctions and let hot chocolate capture your palate with a warm, intoxicating embrace!

Happy mixing all

Nick

London Cocktail Week →

Some of our favourite Hot chocolate cocktails

Santa's favourite drink to come home to after a hard day’s work out in the cold winter’s night delivering presents. Mrs. Claus kept the recipe secret.... until now!

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The Little Black Dress Toddy is a decadent and luxurious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Its name is inspired by the iconic little black dress, known for its...

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Quirky Hot chocolate fact!

Did you know that hot chocolate once doubled as a cocktail ingredient in the 18th century? Wealthy Europeans would mix it with red wine and spices to create a luxurious, warming drink known as "chocolate wine," believed to have aphrodisiac properties. This quirky concoction was a favorite among the elite, merging indulgence with a kick. Today, you can experiment by adding liqueurs like Baileys or peppermint schnapps to your hot chocolate for a modern, spirited twist!

Some more great Hot chocolate cocktails

A great minty warming drink that is best enjoyed on a cold winter night.

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The Peppermint Hot Chocolate cocktail is a comforting, non-alcoholic beverage that embodies the warm indulgence of hot chocolate with a refreshing twist of peppermint. This drink is typically served in...

   View recipe  

We've got 12 Hot chocolate cocktails on Make Me a Cocktail!

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The latest from our Level-up series

Whether you're a beginner bartender or a seasoned mixologist, our Level Up series is designed to elevate your skills to new heights.

The Most Beautiful Cocktail Bars in the World

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A quick history lesson

Hot chocolate, originating from the ancient Maya civilization around 2000 BCE, was originally a bitter brew made from crushed cocoa beans, water, and spices, cherished for its uplifting properties. The Aztecs later adopted it, flavoring the drink with vanilla and chili peppers, dubbing it "xocolātl." After Hernán Cortés introduced this exotic concoction to Europe in the 16th century, sugar transformed it into a sweet, luxurious beverage favored by nobility. Today, hot chocolate has journeyed beyond warm mugs, borrowing a splash of creativity from mixologists, inspiring winter cocktails where creamy textures and rich, cacao notes invite indulgence and toast-worthy warmth.

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