Not long ago we interviewed mixologist Chris LeBeau. (You’ll find our conversation on the blog, here.) After our discussion about the incredible diversity of tasty adult beverages we felt inspired to find some of the richest chocolaty blends in the books - just in time for Easter. So while the kiddos are out hunting chocolate Easter eggs, why not craft something special for the adults to sip in the shade.
Listen to my interview with Chris on our Podcast!
First on our list is the classic Chocolate Martini. It’s a sophisticated cocktail blend of vodka and chocolate liqueur, and if you like, you can get a little fancy with a swirl of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This recipe is from The Pioneer Woman!
Chocolate Martini
Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
Ice, for shaking
4 oz. Baileys Irish cream
4 oz. chocolate liqueur, such as Godiva
4 oz. vodka
Chocolate shavings (optional)
Place two martini glasses in the freezer to chill for 15 minutes before serving.
Drizzle the insides of the glasses with chocolate syrup.
In a cocktail shaker filled half full with ice, combine the Bailey’s, chocolate liqueur, and vodka. Shake well to chill and combine. Strain the mixture and divide between the 2 martini glasses. Top with chocolate shavings, if you like, and serve immediately.
For those who prefer something creamy, don’t miss the Chocolate White Russian. This twist on the traditional White Russian involves chocolate liqueur with vodka and cream. The result is a decadently smooth drink. This one is from Shake Drink Repeat.
Chocolate White Russian
2 ounces vodka
1 ounce coffee liqueur
1 ounce chocolate liqueur
1 ounce heavy cream (you can also use half & half or milk)
Chocolate syrup
Dip the rim of a tumbler in chocolate syrup. Fill the glass with ice.
Pour the vodka, coffee liqueur, and chocolate liqueur into the glass.
Top with heavy cream. Stir before drinking.
Not to be overlooked, the Chocolate Stout is a dream come true for beer enthusiasts. This rich, dark beer offers notes of cocoa and coffee, making it a hearty choice for cooler evenings. Pair it with a hearty Easter meal or enjoy it like a dessert in a glass. This one ranks at the top according to Craft Beer & Brewing.
Pssst! If you want a recipe for a spectacular Chocolate Stout Cake, just email Elaine and ask! 😎
If it’s still a bit cool where you are, you might prefer something warm and comforting. Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Schnapps combines the nostalgic taste of hot cocoa with a minty kick. Here’s one from The Speckled Palate.
Or, a warm Mexican Hot Chocolate Tequila will spice things up all year round. Infused with chocolate and a hint of cayenne, this tequila demonstrates the versatility of chocolate in alcoholic beverages. This one is from Creative Culinary.
Mexican Hot Chocolate Tequila
3 cups milk (even 1% tastes just fine)
1 ½ bars Ibarra chocolate broken into chunks
6 Tbsp cocoa powder
2 Tbsp sugar
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper start with 1/8 tsp and season to taste
4 ounces tequila
½ cup heavy whipping cream
Ground cinnamon (to garnish)
Warm the milk in a medium size heavy saucepan on medium heat, watching carefully.
Add the Ibarra chocolate, the cocoa powder and the sugar.
Heat until the chocolate dissolves, whisking to combine all ingredients.
Season with the cayenne pepper. Start with 1/8 teaspoon and season to your taste.
Pour the warm milk into 2 large mugs and add 2 oz of tequila.
Top with whipping cream; sprinkle whipping cream with cinnamon.
Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur like Chris LeBeau or simply looking to explore new flavors, these chocolate-infused alcoholic drinks offer something for everyone. So, why not treat yourself to a little luxury and give one (or all) of these recipes a try? Cheers to a deliciously indulgent Easter!
