Meet the 'Drunken Rudolph,' a holiday foolproof drink that never fails to impress! It's a crowd-pleaser, hands down

Cooktop Cove: Meet the 'Drunken Rudolph,' a holiday foolproof drink that never fails to impress! It's a crowd-pleaser, hands down

By McKayla Davis

The Drunken Rudolph is a whimsical, boozy twist on classic hot cocoa, perfect for cozying up during chilly winter evenings or adding a little festive cheer to holiday gatherings. This holiday drink combines the warmth of rich hot chocolate with a splash of whiskey, creating a deliciously indulgent treat that’s sure to bring some merriment to your season.

With creamy whipped topping and a sprinkle of red and white accents, it’s as fun to look at as it is to sip, offering a playful yet grown-up take on a favorite winter warmer. Its chocolatey richness paired with the smooth, warming notes of whiskey makes it a must-have for anyone looking to add a little something extra to their hot cocoa tradition.

Drunken Rudolph

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 packet hot cocoa mix (or 2 tablespoons if using loose cocoa powder)
8 oz (1 cup) milk (or water, depending on your preference)
1 to 1.5 oz whiskey (adjust to taste)
1 oz peppermint schnapps (optional, for a minty kick)
Whipped cream for topping
Cherry and candy canes as garnish (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Hot Cocoa:

Heat the milk (or water) until hot but not boiling.
Add the hot cocoa mix and stir until smooth and fully dissolved.

Add the Booze:

Pour in the whiskey and stir to combine.
If using peppermint schnapps, add it now for a peppermint twist.

Top and Garnish:

Add whipped cream generously on top.
Garnish as you please! We like to make a face shape.

Serve Warm and Enjoy:

Serve in a festive mug, and enjoy responsibly!

Variations & Tips

To make the Drunken Rudolph even more festive, try experimenting with different types of whiskey, like bourbon for a sweeter note or an Irish whiskey for added smoothness. For a creamier texture, substitute milk with half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream. You can also swap peppermint schnapps with other liqueurs; try Baileys for a creamy finish, or add a dash of cinnamon whiskey for a warm, spiced kick. For a non-dairy version, use almond or oat milk, which both pair well with the richness of chocolate. Customize your toppings by adding chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a candy cane stir stick for extra holiday flair. To bring out the chocolate flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the cocoa, and for a hint of richness, drop in a small piece of dark chocolate.