Spiced Hot Chocolate with Orange & Vanilla

As the evening winds down and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more inviting than a warm, comforting drink to share with friends and family. This Spiced Hot Chocolate with Orange & Vanilla is indulgent yet soothing, with rich dark chocolate, a hint of zesty orange, and warming spices. Perfect for serving after dinner, it’s a little moment of luxury that makes any gathering feel extra cosy and special.

Looking for the ultimate after-dinner hot drink recipe to impress your guests? This Spiced Hot Chocolate with Orange & Vanilla is a rich and warming treat, combining dark chocolate, cocoa, orange zest, and gentle spices. Ideal for winter evenings, festive gatherings, or cosy nights at home, it can be served as a comforting mocktail or spiked with Baileys, Kahlúa, or spiced rum for adults. Easy to make in minutes, it’s the perfect warm drink for entertaining or enjoying by the fire.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1L whole milk (or oat milk for dairy-free)

• 150g good-quality dark chocolate (roughly chopped)

• ¼ cup cocoa powder

• ¼ cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 orange

• 1 cinnamon stick

• Pinch of ground nutmeg

• Optional: 100ml Baileys, Kahlúa, or spiced rum (for grown-ups)

• Whipped cream + grated chocolate (for topping)

Method:

1. In a saucepan, gently heat the milk with orange zest, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg until steaming but not boiling.

2. Remove the cinnamon stick, then whisk in cocoa powder, honey/sugar, and chopped chocolate until smooth and velvety.

3. Stir in vanilla extract (and Baileys/rum if using).

4. Serve hot in mugs, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of grated chocolate or cocoa.