Drunk Reindeer Recipe

ByZoe Lane
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Introduction

The Drunk Reindeer is a festive cocktail that combines rich hot chocolate with a boozy twist. Whether served cool or warm, it’s a cozy and indulgent treat perfect for holiday gatherings or relaxing evenings.

A clear glass mug filled with three layers: the bottom layer is thick, brown hot chocolate, the middle layer is a slightly lighter brown foam near the top edge, and the top layer is a fluffy white whipped cream with light brown sprinkles of chocolate shavings. On top of the whipped cream sits a bright red cherry in the center, with two brown cinnamon sticks leaning diagonally on opposite sides of the mug. The setting includes a white marbled surface with blurred warm yellow lights in the background, giving a cozy feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces hot chocolate
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 2 ounces chocolate liqueur
  • 1 cherry
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Step 1: For a cool drink, pour the vodka and chocolate liqueur into an ice-filled shaker.
  2. Step 2: Add the hot chocolate to the shaker and shake well.
  3. Step 3: Strain the mixture into a glass or mug.
  4. Step 4: Top the drink with whipped cream.
  5. Step 5: Place the two cinnamon sticks into the glass, one on each side near the back.
  6. Step 6: Add the cherry into the whipped cream near the front.
  7. Step 7: Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top, then enjoy!
  8. Alternative Warm Serving: Pour the vodka and chocolate liqueur directly into a glass or mug, then add the hot chocolate. Top with whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, cherry, and chocolate shavings as above, and enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

  • Try using flavored vodka, such as vanilla or caramel, to add an extra layer of flavor.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and chocolate liqueur and add a splash of vanilla extract instead.
  • Use dark chocolate hot cocoa for a richer taste, or white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier twist.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to prepare in advance, keep the mixed alcohol and hot chocolate separate and combine just before serving. Leftover mixed drinks should be refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours. Reheat gently if serving warm and add fresh whipped cream and garnishes.

How to Serve

A clear glass mug filled with three layers: the bottom layer is smooth, dark brown hot chocolate, topped with a thick layer of white whipped cream sprinkled with fine brown chocolate shavings. A bright red cherry sits on the whipped cream near the center, and two brown cinnamon sticks are placed sticking out diagonally on opposite sides of the glass. The glass is placed on a white marbled surface with soft yellow lights blurred in the background, giving a warm and festive feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Drunk Reindeer without alcohol?

Yes, simply omit the vodka and chocolate liqueur and add a splash of vanilla extract or extra hot chocolate to maintain flavor and volume.

What type of hot chocolate works best for this cocktail?

Use a quality hot chocolate mix or homemade hot cocoa that suits your taste preference—dark, milk, or white chocolate all work well and offer different flavor profiles.

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Drunk Reindeer Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 141 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x
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Description

Drunk Reindeer is a festive and indulgent cocktail that combines rich hot chocolate with vodka and chocolate liqueur, topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and garnished with cinnamon sticks and a cherry. It can be served either chilled or warm, making it perfect for cozy winter gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Liquids

  • 8 ounces Hot Chocolate
  • 2 ounces Vodka
  • 2 ounces Chocolate Liqueur

Garnishes

  • 2 Cinnamon Sticks
  • Whipped Cream (to taste)
  • Chocolate Shavings (to taste)
  • 1 Cherry

Instructions

  1. Prepare to Serve Cool: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill the drink. This will ensure a cool and refreshing cocktail.
  2. Add Spirits: Pour the vodka and chocolate liqueur into the ice-filled shaker.
  3. Add Hot Chocolate: Pour the hot chocolate into the shaker with the spirits and ice.
  4. Shake Well: Shake vigorously to chill and mix all the ingredients uniformly.
  5. Strain: Strain the mixture into a glass or mug to remove ice, resulting in a smooth drink.
  6. Add Whipped Cream: Top the drink generously with whipped cream for a creamy finish.
  7. Insert Cinnamon Sticks: Place two cinnamon sticks into the glass, one on each side near the back for flavor and decoration.
  8. Garnish with Cherry: Place the cherry into the whipped cream near the front for a pop of color and sweetness.
  9. Add Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for extra richness.
  10. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your chilled Drunk Reindeer.
  11. Prepare to Serve Warm: Pour vodka and chocolate liqueur directly into a glass or mug.
  12. Add Hot Chocolate Warm: Pour hot chocolate into the glass or mug with the spirits carefully to maintain warmth.
  13. Top with Whipped Cream: Add a generous layer of whipped cream on top.
  14. Insert Cinnamon Sticks: Place the cinnamon sticks into the glass, one on each side near the back for aroma and presentation.
  15. Garnish with Cherry: Place the cherry on top of the whipped cream near the front for visual appeal.
  16. Add Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream to finish off the warm version.
  17. Enjoy Warm: Serve immediately while warm and savor your cozy Drunk Reindeer cocktail.

Notes

  • You can serve the Drunk Reindeer either cold by shaking with ice or warm by pouring directly into a mug.
  • Adjust the amount of whipped cream and chocolate shavings to suit your taste preference.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, omit vodka and chocolate liqueur, and add extra hot chocolate and whipped cream.
  • Cinnamon sticks add subtle spice and are also great for stirring the drink.
  • This drink is perfect for holiday parties and winter gatherings.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Cocktail
  • Method: Shaking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Drunk Reindeer, hot chocolate cocktail, vodka cocktail, holiday drink, chocolate liqueur, festive cocktail, winter drink

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