Hot Drinks: How to Make Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate at Home – Easy Recipe

What If the Secret to the Best Hot Drinks Was Hiding in Plain Sight?

Have you ever taken a sip of hot chocolate and thought, “This is good… but what if it had a little extra ?” What if we told you that some of the best Hot Beverages out there aren’t just for kids — and they might even have a grown-up twist?

Enter Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate — a rich, creamy, and slightly boozy version of your favorite winter drink. This isn’t your average cocoa; it’s a crowd-pleasing cocktail made with tequila, St-Germain, and topped with marshmallows . And the best part? It’s super easy to make at home.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up this cozy, adult-approved Hot Drink in minutes!

Why This Hot Drink Is Worth Trying

Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate has gone viral for a reason. It takes the classic hot cocoa and gives it a flavorful, fun twist that’s perfect for parties, late-night lounging, or even holiday gifting 

• Time required : Just 5–7 minutes
• Difficulty level : Super simple (no baking or cooking skills needed!)
• Best served : Warm, topped with marshmallows or whipped cream

Whether you're looking for a quick after-dinner treat or something special to serve guests, this Hot Beverage will impress every time.

Essential Ingredients for Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate

Here’s what you’ll need to make one serving:

• 5 oz hot chocolate – Use your favorite brand or homemade mix for a rich base 
• 1 oz tequila blanco – Adds a smooth kick without overpowering the flavor 
• ½ oz St-Germain – A floral liqueur that adds a sweet, fragrant twist 
• Marshmallows – For topping (or use whipped cream if preferred) 

Substitutions & Variations

1. Swap tequila with rum, bourbon, or Bailey’s Irish Cream for a different vibe 
2. Use vanilla syrup instead of St-Germain for a non-alcoholic version
3. Try dark chocolate cocoa for a richer taste
4. Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth 

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate

Making this Hot Drink is as easy as mixing, stirring, and sipping. Here’s how:

Step 1: Brew Your Base

Start by making your favorite hot chocolate. You can use instant mix, homemade cocoa, or even a store-bought version — just keep it rich and warm.

Step 2: Add the Spirits

Pour in the tequila and St-Germain. Stir well so the flavors blend smoothly with the cocoa.

Step 3: Top It Off

Add a few mini marshmallows on top. If you don’t have them, a dollop of whipped cream works great too.

Step 4: Serve and Sip

Grab a cozy mug, wrap your hands around it, and enjoy your new favorite Hot Beverage !

Assembly Tips for the Perfect Pour

To get the most out of your Hot Drinks , follow these pro tips:

1. Use a large mug – Gives room for marshmallows and keeps your drink warm longer.
2. Toast the marshmallows – For an extra-cozy touch, lightly toast them with a kitchen torch before adding.
3. Pre-warm the mug – Fill it with hot water for a minute before pouring in your cocoa — it keeps the drink hotter longer.
4. Garnish creatively – Add a cinnamon stick, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for flair.

Pro tip: For a party, set up a Hot Beverage bar with different spirits and toppings — let everyone customize their own!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this Hot Drink is best enjoyed fresh, here are some ideas for prep ahead:

1. Make the base ahead – Prepare a big batch of hot chocolate and store it in a thermos or insulated pitcher for up to 2 hours.
2. Pre-measure alcohol – Pour tequila and St-Germain into small bottles or measuring jiggers for easy use later.
3. Store marshmallows separately – They lose their fluffiness if left out too long, so add them right before serving.

Note: Since this is a warm drink, it doesn't store well in the fridge or freezer.

Recipe Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun twists to try:

• Bailey’s Version : Swap tequila and St-Germain for 1.5 oz of Bailey’s Irish Cream for a smoother, dessert-like drink 
• Peppermint Twist : Replace St-Germain with 1 tbsp peppermint schnapps and add a candy cane stirrer
• Rum Raiser : Use spiced rum instead of tequila and add a pinch of cinnamon 
• Virgin Option : Skip the alcohol entirely and add 1 tsp vanilla syrup and a splash of orange extract for a sweet, aromatic flavor 
• Chocolate Lovers’ Dream : Stir in a spoonful of melted chocolate or cocoa powder for an ultra-rich version 

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Hot Beverage

Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate is more than just a trendy Hot Drink — it’s a way to turn a childhood favorite into something uniquely yours. Whether you’re sipping solo by the fire or sharing with friends at a holiday gathering, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and a little fun to any moment.

So go ahead — grab your favorite mug, pour yourself a cup, and enjoy the magic of this modern twist on a classic. Cheers to cozy nights and delicious Hot Beverages !

FAQs

Is this Hot Drink healthy?

Like most indulgent Hot Beverages , it's best enjoyed in moderation. To lighten it up, use low-sugar cocoa and skip the whipped cream.

Can I make this non-alcoholic?

Yes! Simply omit the tequila and St-Germain or replace them with 1 tsp vanilla extract and a splash of orange juice .

What kind of tequila should I use?

Blanco tequila is best because it’s clean and crisp, letting the other flavors shine through .

Can I use milk instead of hot chocolate?

For a lighter version, yes — but the drink won’t be as rich or sweet. Consider adding a bit of sugar or chocolate syrup .

How do I make a big batch for a party?

Double or triple the ingredients based on how many servings you need. Keep the hot chocolate warm in a slow cooker or insulated pot, then add alcohol just before serving .

Now that you’ve got the full guide, it’s time to start making your own Hot Drinks at home! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun twist, this Not Santa’s Hot Chocolate is sure to become a favorite in your lineup. So go ahead — stir, sip, and savor every cozy moment!