Description
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and minty twist on classic hot chocolate, perfect for cozying up on chilly days or celebrating the holiday season. Made with whole milk, heavy cream, semisweet chocolate, and flavored with vanilla and peppermint extracts, this indulgent drink is topped with optional whipped cream, marshmallows, and crushed candy canes for a festive finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 to 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- pinch kosher salt
- 3 ounces finely chopped semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips (about 1/2 cup)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Whipped cream, lightly sweetened
- Marshmallows
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a pot over medium-low heat, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until well combined.
- Heat the Mixture: Warm the mixture on the stove until small bubbles start to form around the edges of the pan, making sure not to boil.
- Add Chocolate: Reduce heat to low and add the finely chopped semisweet chocolate. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted, the mixture is glossy, and has thickened slightly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug or two small mugs.
- Garnish: Top with lightly sweetened whipped cream or marshmallows and sprinkle with crushed candy canes, if desired, for an extra festive touch.
Notes
- This hot chocolate is perfect for cold weather and holiday enjoyment.
- Adjust the sugar amount depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut cream.
- You can increase the peppermint extract for a stronger mint flavor but be cautious as it is potent.
- Use high-quality semisweet chocolate for best flavor and texture.
- Garnishes are optional but add a festive and decorative touch.
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
