Bourbon Hot Chocolate

With the Bluegrass State well into its millionth snow day of 2015, we could all use a treat. This hot chocolate is rich, warm, and bourbon-y. (As y'all have heard me say countless times, I prefer to use a spicy, wheated bourbon like Maker's Mark in chocolate recipes.) The bourbon can easily be omitted to make a family-friendly treat; it's still pretty delicious. The secret to this recipe is to let the chocolate-covered marshmallows melt and create a swirly, special topping. 

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•  ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup raw sugar
• Dash salt
• ½ cup boiling water 
• 3 cups milk 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla 
• ¼ cup Kentucky bourbon whiskey
• Trader Joe’s chocolate-covered marshmallows

1. Sift cocoa powder, sugar, and salt and add to medium saucepan. Add boiling water and whisk until smoorth
2. Turn the burner to medium heat.
3. Add milk, stirring frequently.
4. Remove from heat; add vanilla and bourbon.
5. Pour in mugs and add marshmallows. Allow marshmallows to melt, creating a swirled topping. 

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Maker's Mark Mochaccino

A serious snowstorm like the one we've experienced this week calls for a serious warm cocktail. I love mixing a spicy, wheated bourbon with chocolate. This one adds steamed milk to keep you warm and two rich shots of espresso for good measure.

• 2 shots of espresso
• 2 cups steamed steamed milk (or half and half)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 oz Maker's Mark

Pull 2 shots espresso. Add sugar and cocoa powder; stir well. Add Maker's Mark. Add milk, sprinkle with additional cocoa if desired.

Stay warm out there, y'all!