If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy drink to warm up your chilly evenings, I absolutely have to share this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe with you. I mean, this isn’t just any hot chocolate — it’s rich, creamy, and infused with that perfect hint of peppermint that instantly transports you to holiday magic. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to be your go-to treat all winter long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy Texture: The combination of milk and heavy cream creates an indulgent mouthfeel you just can’t get from powdered mixes.
- Perfect Peppermint Balance: Not too strong, not too faint, just that ideal fresh minty flavor to brighten each sip.
- Quick & Easy to Make: You can whip this up in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cozy cravings.
- Customizable Comfort: Whether you like it sweeter, richer, or topped with all the festive garnishes, this recipe adapts just for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role — from the creaminess of whole milk and heavy cream to the depth of semisweet chocolate. I like to shop for high-quality chocolate chips or bars because the flavor really shines through in this recipe.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but 2% works fine too if you want something a bit lighter.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and velvety smoothness that makes this hot chocolate feel extra indulgent.
- Granulated sugar: I recommend starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting from there depending on your sweetness preference.
- Kosher salt: Just a pinch — it enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Semisweet chocolate: Finely chopped or chips work great; melting this slowly is key to smoothness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate and peppermint notes.
- Peppermint extract: Be cautious here; a little goes a long way to give that fresh mint flavor.
- Whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy canes: Optional but highly recommended for that classic festive look and extra flavor.
Variations
I love experimenting with this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe depending on the season or mood. Feel free to adjust to what you and your family enjoy most — this recipe is a fantastic base for creativity.
- Dairy-Free Version: I’ve swapped regular milk and cream for coconut milk and coconut cream — it gives a subtle tropical twist while keeping it creamy.
- Extra Minty Kick: If you’re a peppermint fanatic, add a few crushed candy canes inside for melted minty surprise with each sip.
- Spiked Hot Chocolate: For adults, adding a splash of peppermint schnapps or bourbon makes this an irresistible holiday cocktail.
- Chocolate Variations: Try using dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet version or milk chocolate for a lighter taste that kids love.
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Warm Up Your Base
Start by whisking together your milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of kosher salt in a medium saucepan. Heat this over medium-low heat — keep an eye out for tiny bubbles forming around the edges, but don’t let it boil. This gentle warming brings everything together without scorching the milk.
Step 2: Melt & Whisk in the Chocolate
Turn the heat down to low and add your finely chopped semisweet chocolate (or chips). Whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the chocolate is completely melted, the mixture is shiny, and it has thickened just a bit — this hints at that perfect creamy texture. Don’t rush or turn the heat too high, or you risk separating the chocolate.
Step 3: Pour, Serve & Garnish
Once smooth and glossy, pour your peppermint hot chocolate into your favorite mug. Top it with lightly sweetened whipped cream or some fluffy marshmallows, then sprinkle crushed candy canes right on top for a delightful crunch and festive look. This final touch really elevates the experience — my family goes crazy for it every time.
Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Choose Quality Chocolate: Using good semisweet chocolate makes a huge difference — avoid overly sweet chips for balance.
- Slow Heat is Key: Heating milk mixture gently prevents burning and ensures a creamy, smooth texture.
- Peppermint Extract Goes a Long Way: Start with less — you can always add more, but too much quickly overpowers everything.
- Whisk Continuously: To achieve that silky finish without lumps, stirring constantly while melting the chocolate is essential.
How to Serve Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a huge fan of topping this hot chocolate with lightly sweetened whipped cream because it melts into the drink just perfectly. Marshmallows add a soft, fluffy texture, while crushed candy canes aren’t just pretty — they add minty crunch that’s pure joy. For a little extra, you can drizzle some chocolate syrup or sprinkle tiny chocolate shavings on top.
Side Dishes
When I serve this peppermint hot chocolate, I love pairing it with buttery shortbread cookies, peppermint bark, or even a warm slice of gingerbread. The sweet and warming flavors just complement each other so well and make any afternoon feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings, I like serving this in clear glass mugs so you can see all the layers. Adding a candy cane hooked on the rim or a cinnamon stick stirrer can really up your presentation game. Once, I even tried floating a chocolate-dipped peppermint cookie on top of the whipped cream — total crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover peppermint hot chocolate (which almost never happens in my house!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 2 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before reheating because the chocolate can settle or firm up.
Freezing
Freezing peppermint hot chocolate isn’t my go-to because the texture can change a bit, but if you need to, freeze it in portions with some room for expansion. When thawing, do so in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your peppermint hot chocolate over low heat on the stove, stirring often to keep it smooth and creamy. Microwaving is okay in a pinch, but watch it closely to avoid overheating or separation. Adding a splash of fresh milk while reheating helps restore that silky texture.
FAQs
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Can I use peppermint candy instead of peppermint extract in this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe?
Yes, you can! If you want to use peppermint candies or crushed candy canes, simply add them to the warm milk mixture to melt, then strain out any solids before adding the chocolate. This can give a naturally sweet and minty flavor, but be mindful of added sweetness since candies can bump up sugar levels.
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Is this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This recipe contains no alcohol and can be made kid-friendly by skipping any adult add-ins. Just be careful with the peppermint extract quantity since too much can be overpowering for little ones. The marshmallow and whipped cream toppings usually make it a hit with kids!
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What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
I recommend semisweet chocolate because it balances rich chocolate flavor with just the right sweetness. High-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars both work well. Avoid using unsweetened baking chocolate unless you adjust your sugar level accordingly.
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Can I make a large batch of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need, and heat everything gently in a larger pot. Keep stirring to prevent scorching. It’s perfect for serving a crowd or prepping ahead for a festive party.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe holds a special place in my heart — it’s the drink that brings my family together on cold nights, sparking conversation and smiles with each creamy, minty sip. I can’t recommend it enough if you want to elevate your cozy moments or holiday celebrations. So, grab your favorite mug, dive into this recipe, and treat yourself to a deliciously festive escape. You’ll love how simple it is and how unforgettable it tastes!
Print
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving (1 large or 2 small mugs)
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe offers a rich, creamy, and mint-infused warm beverage perfect for cozying up on a cold day or celebrating the holiday season. Made with milk, heavy cream, semisweet chocolate, and peppermint extract, it’s topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, and crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- pinch kosher salt
Chocolate
- 3 ounces finely chopped semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips (about 1/2 cup)
Garnishes (Optional)
- whipped cream
- marshmallows
- crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a pot, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until well mixed.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the pot on the stove over medium-low heat and warm the mixture until bubbles begin to form around the edges of the pan, being careful not to let it boil.
- Melt the Chocolate: Reduce the heat to low and add the finely chopped semisweet chocolate. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted, the mixture is glossy, and slightly thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with lightly sweetened whipped cream or marshmallows. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive garnish if desired.
Notes
- This hot chocolate is rich and indulgent, making it perfect for cold days or holiday celebrations.
- Use whole or 2% milk for best creaminess; you can substitute with a non-dairy milk like oat or almond for a different twist.
- Adjust sugar amount based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Garnishes are optional but add a festive and flavorful touch.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase peppermint extract slightly but do so sparingly as it can overpower.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 831 kcal
- Sugar: 77 g
- Sodium: 185 mg
- Fat: 49 g
- Saturated Fat: 30 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 83 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 118 mg
