Chocolate Liqueurs

Chocolate liqueurs are sweet drinks that can be enjoyed on their own, over ice or as part of an after-dinner cocktail. They can also be added to coffee or drizzled over some desserts to add a rich and uniquely sweet flavor.

Types of Chocolate Liqueurs

As a consumer, you can choose to enjoy your chocolate liqueur plain or with added flavors, such as a mint or chocolate cherry liqueur. Some people choose to savor the rich flavor of a white chocolate liqueur for a different taste sensation.

Of the several varieties of chocolate liqueurs on the market, some populare brands include:

• Anthon Berg Chocolate Liqueur
• Godiva Chocolate Liqueur (available in chocolate cream, chocolate cappuccino, dark chocolate and white chocolate varieties)
• Tiramisu (combines the flavors of chocolate and coffee, with a delicious result)
• Vandermint Liqueur.

How Chocolate Liqueurs Are Made

Chocolate liqueurs are made from a combination of alcohol, sweetener and chocolate flavoring. The ingredients are simple but the process is a bit lengthy. If you''d like to try your hand at making your own chocolate liqueur, follow this recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 vanilla bean, split
• 3 c vodka
• 3/4 c water.

Directions

1. Combine the water, granulated sugar and cocoa in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
   
   
2. Reduce heat and simmer until the sugar and cocoa are dissolved. Stir occasionally.
   
   Once the sugar and cocoa are dissolved, remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
   
   
3. Pour the mixture into a clean glass container. Add the vodka and vanilla bean. Cover it tightly and store in a dark place for two weeks. The contents will need to be stirred every two days.
   
   
4. After two weeks, use a moist coffee filter over a clean glass container to strain the mixture. This process will take several hours, since the mixture will be thick. The filter will need to be changed about halfway through the process. If you still see residue in your liqueur after you have strained the liqueur, then repeat the process right away.
   
   
5. The final stage of making your own liqueur is to store it in a cool, dark place for a minimum of 30 days.

Chocolate Liqueur Drinks

Chocolate-infused cocktails are a delicious way to enjoy an after-dinner drink. To make your own chocolate liqueur drinks, try the following recipes.

Chocolate Martini

Ingredients

• 1oz. chocolate cream liqueur
• 1 oz. vodka
• splash of cream, optional.

Directions

Combine ingredients and shake well. Strain the mixture and pour into a martini glass. Garnish the drink with chocolate shavings, if desired, and serve.

Chocolate Honeybee

This drink is very simple to make and includes Barenjager, a liqueur made from vodka that tastes like honey.

Ingredients

• 1/2 oz. of Barenjager
• 1/2 oz. of Chocolate Liqueur.

Directions

Pour Barenjager into a shot glass. Pour the 1/2 shot of Godiva Chocolate Liqueur on top. Enjoy.

Mudslide #5

Ingredients

• 1 oz. Irish cream liqueur
• 1 oz. chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz. vodka.

Directions

Combine the ingredients together and pour over ice. Stir, then savor this treat.

Chocolate Liqueurs and Other Foods

Chocolate liqueurs can also be used to add rich chocolate flavor to foods. You may want to experiment with the following ideas:

• Add chocolate liqueur to hot chocolate for a grown-up version of a kid favorite.
  
  
• If you are having vanilla ice cream for dessert, pour a small amount of chocolate liqueur on top before serving.
  
  
• Make your own "Death by Chocolate" cake by either mixing chocolate liqueur into chocolate mousse to go between the layers or by drizzling a small amount of chocolate liqueur on top of the cake.