Go Back

Warm Salted Caramel Rum Hot Chocolate - Cozy, Indulgent, and Easy

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups whole milk (or a creamy dairy-free milk like oat or coconut for a non-dairy version)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional but recommended for richness; use more milk if skipping)
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process for smoother flavor, natural for a brighter cocoa note)
  • 2 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped (60–70% cacao)
  • 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade, plus extra for drizzling)
  • 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar, to taste (start with 2; caramel adds sweetness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus a pinch more for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2–3 ounces dark or spiced rum (1–1.5 ounces per serving; adjust to taste)
  • Whipped cream, for topping (optional but delightful)

Method
 

  1. Warm the dairy base: In a medium saucepan, add the milk and heavy cream. Set over medium heat and warm until steaming and small bubbles appear around the edges. Do not boil.
  2. Whisk in cocoa and sugar: Sprinkle in the cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Whisk well to dissolve any lumps. Taste and add the remaining tablespoon of sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
  3. Melt the chocolate: Add the chopped dark chocolate. Whisk slowly until it melts completely and the mixture looks glossy and smooth.
  4. Add caramel and salt: Stir in the salted caramel sauce and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. Keep whisking until fully combined. The hot chocolate should be thickened slightly and smell like chocolate fudge.
  5. Finish with vanilla: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla. This keeps the flavor bright and warm.
  6. Add the rum: Pour in the rum and whisk to blend. Start with 2 ounces, then taste and add more if you want a stronger kick.
  7. Serve: Divide into two large mugs. Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of flaky salt. Serve immediately while it’s luxuriously warm.