Why You’ll Love Drunken Rudolph Recipe
This holiday drink is:
– Quick and easy to make in about 3 minutes
– Only requires a handful of simple ingredients
– A cozy adult twist on classic hot cocoa
– Perfect for cold weather celebrations or relaxing evenings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
whole milk
hot cocoa mix packet
vanilla ice cream
Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey
squirt whip topping
maraschino cherry
fresh rosemary twigs
Directions
-
Place 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream, Baileys Irish Cream, and Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey into a large coffee mug.
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Heat the whole milk in a microwave‑safe container on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until hot.
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Stir the hot cocoa mix into the heated milk until smooth.
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Carefully pour the hot cocoa into the mug with the ice cream and alcohol.
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Top with a generous amount of whipped cream, two rosemary sprigs for antlers, and a maraschino cherry for the nose.
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Stir gently and enjoy while warm.
Servings and timing
Serves: 1
Prep time: ~3 minutes
Total time: ~3 minutes
Variations
– Use your favorite non‑dairy milk (like almond or oat) for a dairy‑free version
– Swap Baileys with RumChata or Kahlua for a different flavor profile
– Make it alcohol‑free by omitting the spirits and add cinnamon sticks instead of rosemary for fun
– Add extra toppings like marshmallows, chocolate shavings or caramel drizzle for sweetness
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed immediately while hot, as the ice cream melts and the quality changes quickly. It’s not recommended to store leftovers.
FAQs
What if I don’t have Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey?
You can substitute another spiced whiskey or cinnamon liqueur, or use more Baileys for a sweeter, creamier profile.
Can I use low‑fat or skim milk?
Yes, but whole milk creates a richer, creamier hot chocolate that balances the alcohol.
Is there a non‑alcoholic version?
Yes, omit the Baileys and Fireball for a festive hot chocolate; consider adding cinnamon sticks or flavored syrups.
Can I make more than one serving at a time?
Absolutely—just multiply the ingredient amounts and heat the milk accordingly.
Can I use homemade hot cocoa instead of a packet?
Yes, you can substitute your favorite homemade mix; just ensure the final volume is similar.
What’s the best way to garnish it?
Fresh rosemary and a maraschino cherry mimic Rudolph’s antlers and red nose, but cinnamon sticks or pretzel sticks also work.
Is this drink very alcoholic?
It has a noticeable but balanced kick thanks to the spirits; adjust amounts to taste.
Can I prepare parts ahead of time?
It’s best made to order since the ice cream melts and flavor is best fresh.
Can I add extra spices?
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor without overpowering the chocolate.
What kind of ice cream works best?
Vanilla ice cream is ideal for creaminess and balancing flavors, but chocolate or caramel could be fun variations.
Conclusion
Drunken Rudolph is a fun, indulgent adult beverage that elevates classic hot chocolate with creamy ice cream and warming spirits. Quick to make and perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights, it delivers festive cheer in every sip.
Drunken Rudolph
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Drunken Rudolph is a festive and fun holiday cocktail featuring cherry soda, Fireball whisky, and maraschino cherries. This easy-to-make drink is perfect for holiday parties and gatherings, with a sweet and cinnamon kick.
Ingredients
- 1 can Cherry 7UP or Cherry Sprite
- 1.5 oz Fireball Whisky
- Maraschino cherries
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in 1.5 oz of Fireball Whisky.
- Add Cherry 7UP or Cherry Sprite to fill the glass.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries.
- Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
- You can use regular 7UP or Sprite if cherry flavor isn’t available, but cherry enhances the festive flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the Fireball and enjoy as a cherry soda mocktail.
- Adjust the Fireball amount to taste if you prefer a stronger or milder drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
