Name: Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup; 1 tablespoon chocolate sprinkles; Whipped cream, for topping; Mini chocolate chips, for garnish; Chocolate sprinkles, for garnish; Chocolate syrup, for garnish; 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

If you’re craving a cozy yet indulgent treat, you’re going to love this Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe. It’s basically dessert and cocktail rolled into one dreamy glass — think rich hot chocolate mixed with boozy goodness and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream that slowly melts into a creamy, silky dream. I absolutely love how this turns out every time, and trust me, once you try this, you’ll find it’s your go-to winter warmer or any-time-of-year celebration sipper.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The combo of real hot chocolate and melting ice cream creates a luscious texture you won’t forget.
Easy to Customize: Switch up the liquors or garnishes based on what you love or have on hand.
Instant Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve made this for parties and the way everyone dips their spoons in, you’d think it’s the best thing on earth.
No Fuss, Quick Prep: You’ll have this ready in under 5 minutes, perfect for when you want something indulgent fast.

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 - Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail, Hot Chocolate Cocktail, Winter Dessert Cocktail, Boozy Hot Chocolate, Creamy Hot Chocolate Drink

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe relies on a few simple ingredients that work beautifully together — creamy vanilla ice cream, decadent chocolate flavors, and the kick of your preferred liquor. Make sure you have a good quality hot chocolate mix or make your own for the best flavor.

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 - Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail, Hot Chocolate Cocktail, Winter Dessert Cocktail, Boozy Hot Chocolate, Creamy Hot Chocolate Drink

Chocolate Syrup: Pick a rich, thick syrup for coating the rim – it’s the first impression in every sip.
Chocolate Sprinkles: These add fun texture and a chocolaty crunch that’s simply irresistible on the rim.
Vanilla Ice Cream: One large scoop is perfect to melt lovingly into the hot chocolate; full-fat works best for richness.
Kahlua (or RumChata or Bailey’s): I like swapping these based on my mood; each brings a unique flavor dimension.
Dark Crème de Cacao Liqueur: Adds that deep chocolatey liqueur taste to amplify all the cocoa notes.
Hot Chocolate: Use your favorite recipe or a quality mix; skip the cheap stuff to avoid watery or bland results.
Garnishes (whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, chocolate sprinkles, syrup): They bring the final wow factor – fluffy and chocolatey perfection.

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

One of the best parts about this Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether it’s swapping liquors or adding a festive twist, I encourage you to experiment and find your favorite spin!

Use different liquors: My personal favorite swap is coconut rum for a tropical flair; my family goes crazy for it at holiday gatherings.
Add peppermint schnapps: This peppermint version with crushed candy canes is a holiday classic that’s refreshing and fun.
Kid-friendly version: Simply skip the booze – the ice cream and hot chocolate still make it feel like a special treat every time.
Make it extra boozy: I’ve added an extra shot of chocolate vodka when I needed a little extra kick; still balanced and delicious.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chocolatey Rim

Here’s where the fun starts—pour some chocolate syrup on a small plate. Then, take your glass mug, turn it upside down, and dip just the rim into the syrup. Right after, dip the syrup-coated rim into a shallow tray of chocolate sprinkles until it’s fully coated. I learned the trick to keep the rim thick is not rushing the dipping — take your time for an even coat that sets the tone.

Step 2: Scoop Your Ice Cream

Place one generous scoop of vanilla ice cream directly into the mug. I like to use slightly softened ice cream here — it helps blend smoothly when you pour the hot chocolate over it but still keeps some shape for that creamy contrast.

Step 3: Add the Boozy Goodness

Pour in the Kahlua and dark crème de cacao liqueur over the ice cream. I usually give it a tiny stir just to mix the flavors gently before the hot chocolate joins the party. It’s all about layering flavors for maximum deliciousness.

Step 4: Pour the Hot Chocolate

Carefully pour hot chocolate over the ice cream and liquor mixture. I learned that pouring slowly helps avoid splashing and keeps the rim intact. This is the magic moment when the ice cream starts melting and swirling into the warm drink — you’ll want to drink or spoon it fast to catch that perfect creamy texture.

Step 5: Top It Off

Finish with whipped cream, mini chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of chocolate sprinkles or drizzle with extra chocolate syrup. I like to go heavy on this part because a little extra garnish makes it feel like a party in a glass.

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Pro Tips for Making Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe

Choose Good Ice Cream: I’ve found using full-fat vanilla ice cream makes the drink creamier and richer.
Serve Immediately: Since the ice cream melts quickly, this is one drink that needs to be enjoyed right away for the best texture.
Layer Your Liquors: Adding Kahlua and crème de cacao separately builds a deeper flavor than mixing liquor ahead of time.
Rim Maintenance: To avoid sprinkles falling off, dip the rim just before filling and don’t touch the rim when pouring the hot liquid.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe

Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for whipped cream piled high with mini chocolate chips and extra chocolate sprinkles—makes every sip feel decadent and festive. Sometimes I drizzle with extra chocolate syrup for that extra glossy, chocolatey finish. If it’s wintertime, crushed peppermint candies on top add the perfect hint of holiday cheer.

Side Dishes

This drink is rich and indulgent, so I usually pair it with light, crisp cookies like gingersnaps or biscotti. The crunchy texture balances the creamy cocktail perfectly. Or if I’m serving it as dessert, a plate of fresh berries adds a nice, refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe in clear glass mugs to show off all the delicious layers and garnishes. Adding edible gold dust on the whipped cream gives a festive sparkle. You can also rim the glass with crushed nuts or crushed candy canes instead of sprinkles for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this cocktail shines best freshly made, I don’t recommend storing the full drink. However, you can prepare the syrup-coated rims in advance and keep them in the fridge covered with plastic wrap for a few hours—just be gentle when you’re ready to fill.

Freezing

I’ve never frozen this cocktail whole because of the ice cream and liquor combo, but you can freeze extra vanilla ice cream scoops or homemade whipped cream beforehand to speed up prep on the day you’re serving.

Reheating

Since the hot chocolate is best warm and creamy, if you’re making the hot chocolate portion ahead, just gently reheat it on the stove or microwave until steaming before pouring it over fresh ice cream — never boil or it can scorch.

FAQs

Can I make this Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Just leave out the Kahlua and crème de cacao, and you’ll still get a richly chocolatey, creamy treat thanks to the ice cream and hot chocolate—perfect for kids or those avoiding alcohol.
What’s the best hot chocolate to use?

Quality matters here! I recommend using brands like Hershey’s or Ghirardelli for a rich, deep chocolatey flavor. Homemade hot chocolate with real cocoa powder is also amazing.
Can I prepare this drink ahead of time?

You can prep the components like chocolate syrup-rimmed glasses and mix hot chocolate with liquor in advance, but assemble the drink with ice cream just before serving to avoid melting.
What liquors work best for this cocktail?

Kahlua and dark crème de cacao are classic here, but I’ve had great success swapping in RumChata, Bailey’s, chocolate vodka, and even peppermint schnapps for holiday vibes.
How do I avoid the chocolate sprinkles falling off the rim?

Dip the rim in the chocolate syrup just before filling the glass and be careful not to touch the rim while pouring hot chocolate. This helps the sprinkles stick better and last longer.

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Hot Chocolate Ice Cream Cocktail Recipe, I was hooked on the combination of velvety hot chocolate with that cooling scoop of ice cream swirling into warm booze. It’s such a comforting treat that feels special even on the busiest nights. I encourage you to try it exactly as is at first, then make all the tweaks to fit your taste — you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a favorite in your own kitchen. Grab your favorite mug, a big spoon, and get ready to enjoy dessert and a cocktail in one glorious glass. Cheers to cozy indulgence!