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Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe

Avatar photoByJulia
Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 116 reviews

If you’re anything like me and love cozy drinks with a fun twist, you’re going to absolutely adore this Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe. It’s not just your regular cup of hot cocoa; it’s a delightful mix of creamy vanilla ice cream, rich chocolate, and a little boozy kick that turns an ordinary winter evening into something special. I promise, this recipe will become your go-to when you want something warm, indulgent, and just a little bit magical!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: You’ll enjoy the creamy vanilla ice cream melting into the warm, rich chocolate, with a smooth liqueur finish that’s not overpowering.
  • Easy and Quick to Make: This recipe takes just about 5 minutes, so it’s a fantastic treat you can whip up anytime without fuss.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it for a winter party or a cozy night in, my family goes crazy for it every time.
  • Great for Customization: You can easily swap out the liquor or make a kid-friendly version by leaving it out.
A tall clear glass filled with a creamy light brown milkshake, topped with a thick swirl of white whipped cream. The whipped cream is decorated with dark chocolate chips, small chocolate sprinkles, and a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce. The rim of the glass is covered with more chocolate sprinkles, making a textured dark ring. There are scattered chocolate bits and drizzles of chocolate sauce on a white marbled surface around the glass. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman, hot chocolate drinks, winter cozy drinks, festive hot cocoa, creamy chocolate holiday beverage this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe come together beautifully to create a dessert-like drink that’s both decadent and comforting. Make sure to get a good quality hot chocolate mix to really make it shine.

Flat lay of a large scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on a simple white ceramic plate, a small white bowl filled with rich dark chocolate syrup, another small white bowl holding shiny chocolate sprinkles, a small white bowl with mini dark chocolate chips, a small white bowl containing smooth hot chocolate, a small white bowl with amber Kahlua liquor, and a small white bowl with deep brown dark creme de cacao liqueur, all arranged symmetrically and balanced on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman, hot chocolate drinks, winter cozy drinks, festive hot cocoa, creamy chocolate holiday beverage
  • Chocolate syrup: This coats the rim and adds an extra chocolate punch right at the first sip.
  • Chocolate sprinkles: I love the texture and that fun snowman “frosting” look they give when sprinkled on the rim.
  • Vanilla ice cream: A large scoop melts perfectly into the hot chocolate and liquor, giving creamy richness.
  • Kahlua (or RumChata or Bailey’s): Adds a warm, boozy note that elevates the whole drink. Pick your favorite!
  • Dark creme de cacao liqueur: Complements the chocolate flavors with a slightly deeper cocoa vibe.
  • Hot chocolate: Use a quality mix like Hershey’s or Ghirardelli for the best taste.
  • Garnishes: Whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, extra chocolate sprinkles, and more syrup for the finishing touch.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I’ve had so much fun tweaking this Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe over time, and honestly, you can make it your own by switching up the liqueurs or garnishes to match your mood or season.

  • Try Peppermint Schnapps: I once made a batch with peppermint schnapps and crushed candy canes on top—it added such a festive flair perfect for holiday parties.
  • Make it Kid-Friendly: Just leave out the Kahlua and creme de cacao, and you have a beautiful frozen hot chocolate treat for the little ones.
  • Use Chocolate Vodka: For a slightly stronger, adult-only version, swapping in chocolate vodka gave it an exciting twist that my friends loved.
  • Alternate Ice Cream Flavors: I also experimented with mint chocolate chip ice cream for a refreshing edge, which turned out surprisingly good!

How to Make Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Glass with Chocolate and Sprinkles

Start by pouring chocolate syrup onto a small plate. Then, turn your glass mug upside down and dip the rim into the syrup until it’s nicely coated. Immediately follow by dipping the syrupy rim into a tray of chocolate sprinkles for that fun ‘snowy’ effect. This might seem simple, but it really sets the tone and makes the entire drink feel special.

Step 2: Add the Ice Cream and Liquors

Place one large scoop of vanilla ice cream into the mug. Pour in the Kahlua and the dark creme de cacao liqueur right on top—you’ll find that the cold ice cream helps balance the alcohol while it slowly melts, creating that dreamy creamy texture.

Step 3: Pour Hot Chocolate and Garnish

Carefully pour a cup of hot chocolate over the ice cream and liquor. The ice cream will begin to melt instantly, which is exactly what you want. Top it off with a mountain of whipped cream, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips, and add an extra drizzle of chocolate syrup or sprinkles for good measure. Serve immediately with a spoon and a straw because you’ll want both to enjoy every luscious sip.

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Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe

  • Use Quality Hot Chocolate Mix: I learned that a good brand like Ghirardelli makes a noticeable difference in richness and flavor, especially since the rest of the drink is so creamy.
  • Serve Immediately: This drink is best enjoyed as soon as it’s made because the ice cream melts fast—and that’s part of the magic, but don’t let it get watery.
  • Chill Your Glass: If you like, pop your mug in the fridge for a bit beforehand so the hot chocolate doesn’t cool off too quickly once poured.
  • Experiment with Garnishes: Adding mini chocolate chips and extra chocolate drizzle on top truly amps up the indulgence factor.

How to Serve Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe

Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I always go all out with whipped cream on top, a handful of mini chocolate chips, a sprinkle of chocolate sprinkles, and a drizzle of more chocolate syrup. Not only does it look adorable like a snowman, but it also adds layers of flavor and texture that are just heavenly.

Side Dishes

This drink pairs wonderfully with a simple biscotti or some homemade ginger cookies. I find a buttery shortbread cookie complements the rich chocolate without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I love serving this drink in clear glass mugs decorated with little snowman faces drawn with edible markers or chocolate. Adding a cute striped straw and placing it on a festive saucer with a dusting of powdered sugar really makes it a centerpiece that guests rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Since the ice cream melts quickly and the drink is best enjoyed fresh, I’ve found it’s better to store leftover hot chocolate and liquor mixture separately in the fridge and add fresh ice cream when ready to serve again.

Freezing

I haven’t tried freezing this drink fully mixed because the ice cream texture changes once frozen and reheated. However, you can freeze extra scoops of vanilla ice cream separately to have on hand.

Reheating

Reheat leftover hot chocolate and liquor gently on the stove or microwave—just warm enough so it’s hot but not boiling. Then add a fresh scoop of ice cream and garnish for the best experience.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe non-alcoholic?

    Absolutely! Simply skip the Kahlua and creme de cacao liqueur and enjoy the vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate combo. It’s perfectly kid-friendly and still super tasty.

  2. What’s the best way to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly?

    Using a chilled mug and pouring hot chocolate that’s warm rather than boiling helps slow down melting. Also, serve the drink immediately and enjoy it fast for the best texture.

  3. Can I use other ice cream flavors instead of vanilla?

    Definitely! I recommend trying mint chocolate chip or even chocolate ice cream for a richer experience, just make sure it pairs well with your chosen liqueur.

  4. What can I substitute for Kahlua if I don’t have it?

    You can use RumChata, Bailey’s Irish Cream, or even a good coconut rum for a delicious variation. Each adds its own unique flavor twist to the recipe.

  5. How can I make the drink look more festive for parties?

    Add crushed candy canes to the rim, use holiday-themed sprinkles, or decorate the mug with edible snowman faces. A colorful straw goes a long way too!

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe turns any cold day into a warm, cozy celebration. When I first tried it, I was hooked instantly—not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s so easy to make and fun to customize. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone who wants a little indulgence with their hot chocolate. So grab your favorite mug, scoop that ice cream generously, and treat yourself—you deserve it!

Print
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Chocolate Hot Chocolate Snowman Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 116 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 drink
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

The Dirty Snowman is a decadent, creamy hot chocolate cocktail featuring vanilla ice cream, Kahlua, and dark creme de cacao, topped with whipped cream and chocolate garnishes. Perfect for a cozy winter treat or festive celebration, this drink balances rich chocolate flavors with smooth, boozy warmth.

Ingredients

Rim Coating

  • 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup
  • 1 tablespoon chocolate sprinkles

Main Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream (1 large scoop)
  • 1/4 cup Kahlua (or RumChata or Bailey’s)
  • 1 tablespoon dark creme de cacao liqueur
  • 1 cup hot chocolate (prepared)

Garnish

  • Whipped cream (homemade recommended)
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Chocolate sprinkles
  • Additional chocolate syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glass Rim: Place the chocolate syrup on a small plate. Turn the glass mug upside down and dip the rim into the chocolate syrup to coat it thoroughly.
  2. Coat with Chocolate Sprinkles: Immediately dip the syrup-coated rim into a shallow tray or plate of chocolate sprinkles until the rim is evenly covered for a decorative and flavorful edge.
  3. Add Ice Cream: Place a large scoop (about 1/2 cup) of vanilla ice cream into the glass mug, creating a creamy base for the drink.
  4. Pour Liquors: Add 1/4 cup Kahlua and 1 tablespoon of dark creme de cacao liqueur directly over the ice cream, allowing the flavors to meld gradually.
  5. Add Hot Chocolate: Carefully pour 1 cup of prepared hot chocolate over the ice cream and liqueurs to fill the glass, gently mixing the warm liquid with the cold ice cream.
  6. Top with Garnishes: Dollop homemade whipped cream on top, then sprinkle mini chocolate chips and chocolate sprinkles over the cream. Drizzle additional chocolate syrup if desired for extra indulgence.
  7. Serve Immediately: Present the drink with a spoon and/or straw, as the hot chocolate will quickly melt the ice cream. Enjoy this rich, creamy beverage right away for the best experience.

Notes

  • Prepare the drink just before serving to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly and losing texture.
  • You can mix the hot chocolate and liquors in advance, but pour over individual servings only when ready to serve with the ice cream.
  • Use a high-quality hot chocolate mix or homemade hot chocolate to ensure a rich, deep chocolate flavor; brands like Hershey’s or Ghirardelli are excellent choices.
  • Variations include substituting the liqueur with rum, coconut rum, Bailey’s, or chocolate vodka. For a festive twist, peppermint schnapps and crushed candy canes can be added.
  • To make a kid-friendly version, omit the liqueurs and serve just the hot chocolate with ice cream and chocolate toppings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 drink
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
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Hi, I’m Julia! A foodie who believes in keeping cooking simple, fun, and full of flavor. From quick weeknight meals to tasty treats, I’m here to share recipes that make life a little easier—and a lot more delicious. Let’s get cooking!

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