Begin by pouring 2 cups of almond milk into a small saucepan. Place the pan over low heat and gently warm the milk for about 5 minutes or until it just begins to steam, stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching.

Once the almond milk is steaming, add 3 ounces of chopped dark chocolate, ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon to the pan. Turn your heat up to medium-low and stir continuously for about 5 minutes, ensuring the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes silky smooth without any lumps.

Continue whisking the chocolate mixture vigorously for another 5–10 minutes until it’s hot and frothy. This ensures every component is well-combined, giving your homemade hot chocolate a luxurious texture.

After achieving that perfect creamy texture, stir in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup along with the optional 2 teaspoons of bourbon, if desired. Mix thoroughly for about a minute to combine all the flavors, tasting as you go to tailor the sweetness to your preference.

Pour your rich homemade hot chocolate into mugs, filling them generously to showcase its lusciousness. If you like, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an indulgent finish. Enjoy this cozy treat immediately.