When it’s cold outside, nothing will warm you up like this Kahlua hot chocolate!
What is a White Russian?
A White Russian is a creamy drink traditionally made with Kahlua liqueur, vodka and heavy cream.
A White Russian is an alcoholic beverage, but barely. It’s more of a slightly boozy cup of coffee.
We’re changing the original recipe slightly with the addition of homemade, stovetop hot chocolate. Which, in my humble opinion, makes all the difference.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich chocolatey bev:
- Milk. The higher the fat content of the milk, the creamier your hot chocolate will be. I’d recommend whole milk, but this recipe does work with 2% milk and nonfat milk.
- Cocoa powder. Look for regular cocoa powder, not Dutch process.
- Sugar
- Kahlua coffee liqueur
- Vodka
How to Make Kahlua Hot Chocolate
Make the Hot Chocolate
Start by bringing the sugar and cocoa powder to a boil with some water in a small saucepan. Be sure to stir the mixture constantly so it doesn’t boil over.
Then, reduce the heat and stir in the milk.
Make it Boozy
Pour your homemade hot chocolate into mugs and gently stir in the vodka and Kahlua. Cozy up and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your mug of Kahlua hot chocolate with any of these garnishes:
1. Candy canes. These hot White Russian drinks make the perfect holiday cocktails when garnished with a sticks of peppermint.
2. Whipped cream. I wouldn’t dream of serving this indulgent drink any other way!
3. Mini marshmallows. Add a childlike twist and float some squishy little marshmallows on top of your drink.
4. Caramel Sauce or Chocolate Syrup. Drizzle one of these on top of the whipped cream to make a picture perfect cocktail.
Variations
1. The Milk: For a dairy free version of this yummy hot drink, try using coconut milk, almond milk or other plant-based milk.
2. The Kahlua: The original coffee-flavored liqueur now comes in lots of fun flavors! Try the salted caramel, mint or deep chocolate flavor to find your favorite.
3. The Vodka: Vodka comes in a wild variety of flavors these days. Experiment with vanilla-flavored vodka and whipped cream-flavored vodka for fun variations of this cozy, warm drink.
Storage Instructions
If you have any drinks leftover, cover them with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll be good in the fridge for a few days.
Reheat them in the microwave or over medium heat on the stove.
When you make this Kahlua hot chocolate recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a rating or leave a comment below. Enjoy!
For more Winter Cocktails, try these:

Kahlua Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 4 cups milk
- 2 shots vodka
- 1 shot Kahlua
- whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, bring the water, sugar and cocoa to a boil. Stir constantly for 2 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in the milk.
- Remove from heat and pour into individual mugs. Add the vodka and Kahlua. Top with whipped cream.


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