Cocoa-Chili Mexican Hot Chocolate

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-01 · Updated 2026-06-01

A rich, spicy hot chocolate with a deep cocoa flavor and a warming chili kick, perfect for cozy evenings. This recipe, ready in about 15 minutes, brings together whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 oz dark chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• to top whipped cream
• 1 piece cinnamon stick

Bar tools worth buying for drinks like this → Best Bar Tools for 2026: Shakers, Jiggers & Strainers Worth Buying

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine 8 oz whole milk, 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 oz dark chocolate chips, and 1 tbsp granulated sugar.
2. Step 2: Heat over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and hot but not boiling.
3. Step 3: Stir in 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp chili powder, and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into a pre-warmed mug.
5. Step 5: Top generously with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick rested on the side of the mug.