The Best Chocolate Cocktails & Drinks: Featuring the 'Cacao Or Never' Recipe

Nothing says indulgence quite like a decadent chocolate cocktail. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sophisticated dessert in a glass, chocolate drinks are the perfect treat. Our 'Cacao Or Never' cocktail is a unique take on a classic, blending rich cacao with a surprising hint of grapefruit and ginger for an unforgettable flavor experience. It's the ultimate chocolate drink for those looking for something a little different and a lot delicious.

The 'Cacao Or Never' Cocktail Recipe

This original recipe, a collaboration with The Sauceress, balances deep, rich flavors with bright, citrusy notes. The Copalli Barrel Rested Rum provides a complex base, while the Creme de Cacao delivers the pure chocolate essence. Ginger Liqueur adds a spicy warmth, and a touch of Oroblanco grapefruit juice cuts through the richness, creating a wonderfully balanced drink. The final addition of El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters and Falernum Syrup elevates the cocktail with a nuanced spice and subtle sweetness.

Ingredients

x The Sauceress

• 1.5 oz Copalli Barrel Rested Rum
• 1 oz Creme de Cacao (Cultivated Cocktails)
• 0.25 oz Ginger Liqueur (Barrows Intense)
• 1 oz Oroblanco Grapefruit Juice
• 8 dashes El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters
• 1 Bar Spoon El Guapo™ Falernum Syrup
• Ginger slice and fresh grapefruit wedge, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Carefully add the Copalli Barrel Rested Rum, Creme de Cacao, Ginger Liqueur, Oroblanco Grapefruit Juice, El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters, and El Guapo™ Falernum Syrup.
3. Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds, or until it is well chilled and the outside of the glass becomes frosty.
4. Strain the chilled cocktail into a rocks glass over a few fresh, large ice cubes.
5. Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger and a wedge of grapefruit before serving. CHEERS!

Tips for Making Perfect Chocolate Cocktails at Home

Making a great cocktail is all about balance and technique. Here are a few tips to ensure your chocolate drinks turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the Right Chocolate: A high-quality Creme de Cacao is essential for a rich chocolate flavor. Avoid overly sweet or artificial-tasting brands.
• Stir, Don't Shake: This recipe calls for stirring, not shaking. Stirring is the preferred method for cocktails made with spirits and no citrus, as it gently chills and dilutes the drink without aerating it, resulting in a smooth, clear texture.
• Garnish for Impact: A proper garnish is not just for looks. The ginger slice and grapefruit wedge in this recipe add a fresh aroma that enhances each sip.
• Pro Tip: Oroblanco is a new grapefruit variety that is a cross between a pomelo and a white grapefruit. It’s super juicy with more sweetness than a regular grapefruit and much more manageable than a pomelo. It's perfect for this recipe.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What kind of chocolate is best for cocktails?

 For chocolate cocktails, a high-quality chocolate liqueur like Creme de Cacao is typically used. Both white and dark varieties are available. For a deeper, more bitter chocolate flavor, a dark chocolate liqueur is ideal.

Can you use cocoa powder in a cocktail?

 While not as common, you can use high-quality cocoa powder to add flavor. It often requires a syrup or a mixing technique to prevent clumping. For most chocolate drinks, a liqueur is easier and provides a smoother result.

What alcohol pairs well with chocolate?

 Chocolate pairs beautifully with a wide range of spirits, including rum, whiskey (especially bourbon and rye), tequila, and vodka. The rich flavor of chocolate complements the warmth of barrel-aged spirits and the crispness of clear ones.