Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate {Optional Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate}

It’s that time of year again. We are setting up the Ofrenda for the year and the cold weather is settling in. I am pulling together decorations and treats for our Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead celebration.

This year the holiday holds a heavy heart as we come full circle on my mother’s death on the holiday last year followed by my grandmother a few days later. I decided one must have this year is Mexican Hot Chocolate.

Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe

As much as I love melting real chocolate for a glass or two at a time and the chocolate with chili in it from Aldi makes the perfect chocolate base to a cup of hot chocolate it doesn’t translate well to making in a large batch for a gathering.

Instead, I use a simple easy Mexican Hot Chocolate recipe using American-style hot chocolate mix as a base.

For this, you will need to multiply this recipe by how many cups of hot chocolate you need. If making only a couple of cups you can use a saucepan on the store top but for a crowd, I suggest making it in bulk by making your Mexican Hot Chocolate in the Crock-Pot.

What you need:

:: 2 Tbsp Hot Chocolate mix

:: ½ tsp cinnamon

:: ¼ tsp nutmeg

:: Pinch of cayenne

:: 1 Cup Milk (any kind)

:: 1.5 oz whipped cream vodka

:: 1 oz creme de cacao (optional)

:: Chocolate syrup (for a stronger chocolate flavor)

:: Whipped cream for topping

How to make Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate

:: Whisk hot chocolate mix, spices, and milk in a small pan (or your slow cooker) until smooth and heat until simmering. 

:: Remove from heat and add to cups

:: For Spiked Mexican Hot Chocolate mix in alcohol by the cup or in the pot depending on whether or not you want a non spiked option. 

:: Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and cinnamon (extra cayenne optional).

Other Great Dia De Los Muertos traditions


Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant and meaningful holiday celebrated in Mexico and by people of Mexican heritage around the world. It’s a time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Here are some key traditions associated with Day of the Dead:

  1. Altars (Ofrendas):
    • Families create colorful altars in their homes or at cemeteries to honor their deceased loved ones. These altars are adorned with marigolds, candles, incense, and the favorite foods and drinks of the departed.
  2. Marigolds (Cempasúchil):
    • Marigold flowers are the traditional flower of the dead. They are believed to guide the spirits back to the world of the living. Altars are often adorned with marigold petals and garlands.
  3. Sugar Skulls (Calaveras de Azúcar):
    • Elaborately decorated sugar skulls are a prominent symbol of Day of the Dead. They are often personalized with the names of the deceased and placed on altars as a representation of the departed souls.
  4. Pan de Muerto:
    • “Bread of the Dead” is a sweet, round loaf of bread with bone-shaped decorations on top. It’s a staple food during the celebrations and is offered on altars as a symbol of the communion between the living and the dead.
  5. Photographs and Mementos:
    • Families display photographs, belongings, and mementos of their deceased loved ones on the altar. This helps keep their memory alive and allows for a sense of connection.
  6. Candles and Incense:
    • Lit candles and incense are used to guide the spirits back to the world of the living. They also symbolize hope and provide a source of light in the darkness.
  7. Favorite Foods and Drinks:
    • Families prepare the favorite dishes and beverages of the departed and place them on the altar. It is believed that the spirits can enjoy the essence of the food.
  8. Visiting Gravesites:
    • Families often visit the graves of their loved ones, where they clean and decorate the tombstones, share stories, and sometimes have a picnic in the cemetery.
  9. Face Painting (Calavera Makeup):
    • People, especially children, often paint their faces as colorful skulls, which represents the idea that death is a natural part of life.
  10. Community Celebrations:
    • Many communities hold parades, festivals, and cultural events to celebrate Day of the Dead. These can include music, dancing, processions, and elaborate costumes.
  11. Poetry and Artwork:
    • Poetry, songs, and artwork inspired by the themes of life, death, and remembrance are often created and shared during this time.

Day of the Dead is a beautiful and deeply meaningful celebration that emphasizes the belief in the continuity of life beyond death. It’s a time of reflection, love, and remembrance, and it holds a special place in Mexican culture and the hearts of those who observe it.

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