The Drunken Snowman is creamy, warm, a little boozy, and totally cozy. It’s what you’d get if hot chocolate and a cocktail had a holiday baby.
Made with rich hot cocoa, smooth Baileys, and a scoop of melty vanilla ice cream on top, this drink is fun, festive, and a little indulgent in the best way.
It comes together super fast—just heat, stir, and top.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this drink during a snowstorm when I was craving something sweet, warm, and a little spiked. The combo of rich cocoa, Baileys, and ice cream hit the spot instantly. It’s become my go-to when I want something comforting but still feels like a treat.
- You only need a few ingredients
- It tastes like hot chocolate with a grown-up twist
- The melty ice cream adds that extra magic
- Great for cozy nights in or small holiday get-togethers
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix
- 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
- Chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Pro Tips
- Don’t boil the milk—just heat it until hot and steamy
- Use a good quality cocoa mix for richer flavor
- Make sure your ice cream scoop is firm so it doesn’t melt too fast
- Warm your mug before pouring the drink in—it helps keep it hot longer
- Want it extra creamy? Use half-and-half instead of milk
Tools Required
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clear glass mug
- Ice cream scoop
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk: Use oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free
- Baileys: Swap for Kahlúa or other cream liqueurs
- Ice cream: Try chocolate or peppermint ice cream for a twist
- Hot cocoa mix: Use homemade or a flavored version like dark chocolate
Make Ahead Tips
You can heat the milk and cocoa mix ahead of time, then just rewarm gently and add Baileys and toppings when ready to serve.
How to Make a Drunken Snowman
Step 1: Heat Milk and Cocoa Mix
In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup whole milk and 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix over medium heat. Whisk until fully combined and steaming hot, but not boiling.
Step 2: Add Baileys
Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream until fully blended.
Step 3: Pour into Mug
Pour the hot drink into a clear glass mug.
Step 4: Add Ice Cream
Top the drink with 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream, placed gently on top so it begins to melt.
Step 5: Finish with Toppings
Drizzle with chocolate syrup and dust lightly with cocoa powder.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is meant to be served fresh. If you need to store it, skip the ice cream and keep the cocoa + Baileys mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving, then add the toppings.
Macros Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 360
- Carbs: 30g
- Sugar: 26g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Alcohol: ~10% ABV (varies by Baileys)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Milk proteins help smooth out the cocoa mix, and the fat in Baileys blends easily into the warm milk without curdling. The scoop of ice cream melts slowly into the drink, adding sweetness, richness, and that creamy snowman-on-a-mission vibe.
Common Mistakes
- Boiling the milk – it can scorch or separate
- Adding Baileys while still on the heat – it can cook off the alcohol
- Using soft ice cream – it melts too fast and disappears before serving
- Too much syrup – it can overpower the balance
What to Serve With
- Shortbread cookies
- Chocolate-dipped pretzels
- Mini cinnamon donuts
- Marshmallow-topped brownies
- A slice of pound cake or coffee cake
FAQ
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! Just leave out the Baileys or use a non-alcoholic Irish cream.
Can I use homemade hot chocolate instead of mix?
Definitely—just make sure it’s not overly sweet.
Does the ice cream melt too fast?
If it’s firm, it will float and melt slowly, adding creaminess as you sip.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double all the ingredients and divide between mugs.
Final Thoughts
The Drunken Snowman is the kind of cozy treat you want on a chilly night. It’s sweet, creamy, a little strong, and just plain fun. It’s hot cocoa, but better—and you’ll feel like you’re sipping a dessert. Try it out, get cozy, and don’t forget to come back and tell me how it turned out for you.
