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a mug of red wine hot chocolate with whipped cream and cocoa powder in the foreground, another mug of hot chocolate and a bowl of whipped cream in the background
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4.84 from 6 votes

Red Wine Hot Chocolate

This Red Wine Hot Chocolate is sweet, just a touch boozy, and oh so decadent. Make a mug for just yourself or share it with a loved one!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Additional Time0 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Cocktails
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2 mugs
Calories: 625kcal
Author: Lauren Pacek

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mugs

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups half and half see notes
  • ¾ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips see notes
  • splash of vanilla extract
  • ½ cup red wine see notes
  • whipped cream and marshmallows for garnish

Instructions

  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, set over medium-low heat, warm the half and half until beginning to bubble slightly around the edges. Be careful not to let it boil, and do not scorch it.
  • Add the chocolate and whisk continuously until melted and smooth.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla extract and red wine. Whisk until combined and smooth.
  • Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs and top with whipped cream and marshmallows, if desired.

Notes

  • I've preferred half and half, but I believe that 2%, whole milk, or heavy cream would work, as well. I have not yet tried to make this with non-dairy milks.
  • Use dark, semi-sweet, or milk chocolate, according to your preference. Also feel free to use chips, chunks, or chopped bars of chocolate.
  • For best results, use a red wine that pairs well with chocolate (Merlot, Zinfandel, Syrah would all be good picks) and that you wouldn't mind drinking a glass of on its own.