The Cocoa Malt Bourbon mocktail is a luxurious blend of rich malted milk, chocolatey undertones, and a hint of vanilla. Despite its name, this recipe is entirely non-alcoholic, making it an ideal indulgence for those who want the sophisticated flavors of a dessert drink without the spirits. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or serving guests something unique, this creamy concoction delivers warmth, nostalgia, and delight in every sip.
What Makes This Drink Shine
The Base
The heart of this mocktail is malted milk, which combines a velvety creaminess with the nutty, toasted flavor of malt. For added convenience, you can use malted milk powder whisked into regular milk.
Cocoa Powder
Adding unsweetened cocoa powder gives the drink a sophisticated, chocolatey depth without overwhelming sweetness. This ingredient is key to balancing the malted flavors with just the right amount of bitterness.
Sweetness and Spice
A touch of brown sugar or honey adds subtle caramel notes to enhance the malt and cocoa. Meanwhile, a dash of vanilla extract ties the flavors together, lending an inviting warmth that feels perfect for cozy evenings.
The Fizz
The real twist comes from the addition of non-alcoholic malt beverage or cola. Its effervescence brings lightness and a touch of whimsy, transforming this creamy drink into a bubbly delight. We recommend Coca-Cola or Pepsi. The caramel notes in traditional colas blend beautifully with cocoa and malt.
Pairing Suggestions
The Cocoa Malt Bourbon mocktail is a versatile drink that can be paired with various foods and occasions:
- Dessert Companion: Serve alongside brownies, cookies, or even chocolate fondue for a decadent treat.
- Casual Comfort: Perfect for movie nights or as a cozy accompaniment to your favorite book.
- Holiday Gatherings: This mocktail’s festive feel makes it a crowd-pleaser during holiday celebrations.
Tips for Elevating Your Mocktail
- Upgrade the Milk: For an even creamier texture, swap regular milk with whole milk or oat milk.
- Go Bold with Chocolate: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra indulgence or garnish with grated dark chocolate.
- Serve It Stylishly: Rim the glass with crushed malted milk balls or cocoa powder for a visual and textural flourish.
- Temperature Play: Enjoy it chilled over ice for a refreshing feel, or warm it up for a cozy winter treat.
The Cocoa Malt Bourbon mocktail reminds me of those timeless moments when simple flavors feel like a hug in a glass. The nostalgic malt and cocoa combination bring back memories of sipping chocolate milkshakes as a child, but this version feels more grown-up and refined. Whether you’re savoring it solo or sharing with friends, this drink is an invitation to slow down and relish the little pleasures in life.