How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Moonshine

Imagine combining the rich, creamy goodness of chocolate hazelnut spread with the smooth kick of moonshine. Sounds heavenly, right?

That’s what you get with chocolate hazelnut moonshine—a dessert lover’s dream come true. Perfect for sipping on cozy nights or serving at parties, this decadent drink is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Let’s dive into this indulgent adventure! Just a quick reminder: always enjoy your moonshine responsibly and follow your local laws.

Ingredients and Equipment

List of Ingredients

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s make sure you have all the ingredients you need.

Here’s your shopping list:

• 750 ml high-proof alcohol (such as Everclear or vodka): Creates the strong alcoholic base.
• 1 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella): Adds a creamy chocolate flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Enhances the richness of the chocolate.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Provides a smooth and creamy texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds a luxurious, thick consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the chocolate and hazelnut flavors.

Necessary Equipment

Got your ingredients? Great!

Now, let’s check off the equipment list:

• Large mixing bowl: For mixing everything together.
• Whisk or hand mixer: To blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Mason jars or glass containers: These will be your moonshine’s home while it infuses.
• Funnel: To make pouring easy and mess-free.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key!

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Mixing the Chocolate Base

First things first, let’s create the chocolatey base for our moonshine. Grab your large mixing bowl and add the Nutella, cocoa powder, and sweetened condensed milk.

Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend these ingredients together until you have a smooth, rich mixture. It’s like making the best hot chocolate mix ever, but with a boozy twist coming up!

Step 2: Incorporating the Cream

Next, it’s time to add the heavy cream. Pour it into the chocolate mixture and continue to whisk until everything is well combined.

This step is crucial for achieving that creamy, luxurious texture. Think of it like making a chocolate mousse—smooth, rich, and oh-so-delicious.

Combining and Infusing

Step 3: Adding Alcohol and Vanilla

Now for the fun part—adding the booze! Pour your high-proof alcohol into the chocolate and cream mixture.

Add a splash of vanilla extract for that extra depth of flavor.

Stir everything together until it’s thoroughly mixed. This is where the magic happens, as the alcohol infuses with the chocolatey goodness.

Step 4: Adjusting Sweetness

Give your mixture a taste. Is it sweet enough for your liking? If not, you can add a bit of sugar. Just sprinkle it in and stir until it dissolves.

Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in, so go easy and taste as you go. It’s like seasoning a dish—you want to get it just right.

Bottling and Storing

Step 5: Transferring to Jars

Now that your chocolate hazelnut moonshine mixture is ready, it’s time to transfer it to your mason jars. Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into each jar. Make sure you leave a bit of space at the top to allow for any expansion during storage. It’s like filling up little treasure chests with liquid gold!

Step 6: Sealing and Shaking

Once your jars are filled, seal them tightly with their lids. Give each jar a good shake to make sure everything is well-mixed. It’s like shaking up a snow globe—everything swirls around, creating a beautiful blend of flavors.

Step 7: Infusion Period

Now comes the waiting game. Let your jars sit for at least one week. Store them in a cool, dark place and give them a shake every few days. This infusion period allows all the flavors to meld together into a harmonious blend. Think of it like letting a fine wine age—the longer it sits, the better it gets.

Final Touches and Serving

Step 8: Tasting and Adjusting

The wait is finally over! It’s time to taste your chocolate hazelnut moonshine. Open a jar and take a small sip. How’s the flavor? If it’s not sweet enough or needs a bit more chocolate, feel free to adjust by adding more sugar or cocoa powder. Think of it like tweaking a recipe—you want to get it just right.

Step 9: Bottling and Storing

Once you’re happy with the flavor and consistency, it’s time to bottle your moonshine. Transfer the liquid into clean, airtight bottles. Label them if you’re feeling fancy—this can be especially fun if you’re planning to give some away as gifts. Store your bottles in a cool, dark place to keep the flavors fresh. And remember, the longer it sits, the better it gets. It’s like aging fine wine but way more indulgent!

Serving Suggestions

Creative Cocktails

Now that you’ve got your chocolate hazelnut moonshine ready, let’s talk about how to serve it. You can enjoy it straight, on the rocks, or mix it into some fabulous cocktails. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Chocolate Hazelnut Martini: Mix your moonshine with a splash of cream and a dash of hazelnut liqueur. Shake well and serve in a chilled martini glass.
• Nutty Hot Chocolate: Combine your moonshine with hot chocolate for a cozy, boozy treat. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
• Hazelnut White Russian: Mix your moonshine with coffee liqueur and cream. Serve over ice for a deliciously creamy cocktail.

Presentation Tips

When serving your moonshine at parties or gatherings, presentation is key. Consider using elegant glasses to match the rich, indulgent nature of your moonshine. Add some fun garnishes like chocolate shavings or a drizzle of Nutella around the rim. If you’re gifting the moonshine, decorate the bottles with ribbons or custom labels. Think of it like setting the stage for a show—you want everything to look as good as it tastes!

Conclusion

To wrap things up, making chocolate hazelnut moonshine is a fun and creative way to bring some sweetness into your life. From choosing your favorite flavors to experimenting with different cocktails, the possibilities are endless. Remember to always enjoy your creations responsibly and stay within the legal guidelines for alcohol production in your area.

Happy brewing, and cheers to your delicious creations!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your supplies, pick your favorite chocolate hazelnut flavors, and start creating your own delightful moonshine today! Cheers!