Smoky Hot Cocoa with El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters

This rich and creamy El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters smoky hot cocoa is the perfect warming beverage for a cold day. It's a kid-friendly, vegan, and sweet treat that everyone can enjoy. We created this recipe with one of our favorite woman-owned, spirit-free brands, For Bitter For Worse, to celebrate Dry January. The combination of their Smoky No.56 and our aromatic bitters makes for a truly unique and delicious hot cocoa experience that is anything but ordinary.

Smoky Hot Cocoa Ingredients

x For Bitter For Worse
📸: The Sauceress

• 2.5 oz For Bitter For Worse Smoky No.56
• 5 oz oat milk
• 1T cocoa powder
• 1T coconut sugar
• 6 dashes El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters
• Cashew, coconut, or any whipped cream plus chocolate shavings for garnish

How to Make Smoky Hot Cocoa

Follow these simple steps to make a decadent, smoky and sweet hot cocoa.

1. Warm the Milk: Pour the oat milk into a small saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Do not let it boil.
2. Make the Paste: In a mug, combine the coconut sugar and cocoa powder. Stir or whisk in the For Bitter For Worse Smoky No.56 until it forms a smooth paste. This prevents the cocoa powder from clumping.
3. Combine & Stir: Add the El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters to the paste. Gradually stream in the hot oat milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
4. Garnish & Serve: Top your hot cocoa with your choice of whipped cream and finish with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.

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 makes this hot cocoa "smoky"?

The smoky flavor comes from the For Bitter For Worse Smoky No.56, a spirit-free beverage that adds a complex and intriguing depth to the drink. When combined with our El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters, it creates a unique hot cocoa that is both sweet and subtly smoky.

Can I make this hot cocoa with dairy milk?

Yes, you can easily substitute the oat milk with an equal amount of your favorite dairy milk. The recipe will still be delicious, but it will not be vegan.

What are El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters?

El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters are handcrafted with rich cocoa, a hint of spice, and a touch of sweetness. A few dashes can add a profound depth of flavor to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, enhancing the complexity of any beverage. They are perfect for chocolate-based cocktails or desserts.