It’s December, which means Festive Fridays are back and you know I love a good libation. There’s something romantic about a cocktail in a vintage coupe glass, something cozy about a spiked warm drink, and something sexy about spirits in a rocks glass. Or, maybe it’s the time of year that makes the cocktails feel special. Whatever it is, creating these festive drinks has become a tradition in our house. We have fun thinking about the flavors of the season, naming the final results, and presenting them to you. A fun little treat at the end of each week. And as you host or attend parties maybe you’ll make one and share a moment with us.
This week’s drink is a simple spiked hot chocolate. Something to keep you warm on a cold winter’s night as you watch Christmas movies or walk the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights. Withhold the alcohol and you still have a delicious orange-infused drink that’s appropriate for all ages.
We tested a handful of orange liqueurs and Cointreau was hands-down the best for this drink. It had the truest orange flavor, but you can use whatever you prefer. Onward!
Orange You Glad It’s Christmas?
Ingredients (serves 2)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Ghiradelli semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp orange extract
- 2 ounces Cointreau
- Whipped cream for topping
- Zest from orange for topping
Recipe
- Add milk, cream, and chocolate chips to a pot and heat on medium-low, mix periodically (I like to use my handheld milk frother)
- Add orange extract to the pot and mix
- Add 1 ounce Cointreau to each mug
- Add hot chocolate to each mug, leaving room for whipped cream
- Top with whipped cream and orange zest
I hope that you’ll follow along as we release a new Festive Friday cocktail each week. Here’s to a merry Christmas season.
XOXO
Veronica
Check out previous Festive Friday Cocktails here:
