A century ago, it was fashionable to wear a nightcap at bedtime. Those comfy hats locked in warmth and aided sleep. Nowadays, the concept and practice of a nightcap means something to sip while you shrug off the weight of the day, a small alcoholic potion before bed. This whiskey-spiked hot cocoa has a certain soothing, warming, and relaxing quality that can help to induce healthful, restful sleep. Think of it as an adult bedtime story.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar, or to taste
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 cups milk
- 3 ounces whiskey
- Whipped cream (optional)
How to Make It
- Mix together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a saucepan. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk until steaming but not boiling.
- Add just a few tablespoons of the hot milk into the cocoa mix, and stir into a smooth paste with a wooden spoon. Gradually add the remainder of the milk and continue stirring until fully incorporated.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, add the whiskey, then froth with an immersion blender until creamy and foamy. Divide into four pre-warmed cups, and top each with whipped cream if desired.