Description
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe combines rich cocoa, smooth milk, and refreshing peppermint to create a cozy and festive beverage perfect for cold days and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder sifted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Garnishes
- Marshmallows
- Whipped cream
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Heat Milk Mixture: Place the milk, sifted cocoa powder, and granulated sugar in a pot. Cook over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the mixture is warm and the cocoa and sugar are fully incorporated, ensuring it reaches a light simmer without boiling.
- Melt Chocolate: Add the semisweet chocolate chips to the warm mixture and continue cooking for another 4 minutes while whisking continuously until the chocolate has fully melted into the milk.
- Add Extracts: Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, cooking for an additional 1 minute to blend the flavors evenly throughout the hot chocolate.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes as desired for a festive and delightful presentation.
Notes
- Peppermint extract is very strong; 1/4 teaspoon provides sufficient mint flavor. Add more cautiously if you prefer a stronger peppermint taste.
- Avoid boiling the mixture to prevent curdling or separation of the milk and chocolate.
- For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.
- Crushed candy canes add a nice crunch and extra peppermint flavor but can be replaced with peppermint sticks or omitted.
