Description
Indulge in this Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate, a creamy and decadent holiday beverage blending melted chocolate, cocoa powder, and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Perfectly smooth and topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies, it’s a festive treat to warm you up during the winter season.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions
- Warm Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm the mixture until it is steaming but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add Cocoa and Sugar: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt into the warm milk mixture until completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and uniform in color.
- Melt Chocolate Chips: Add the semi sweet chocolate chips to the saucepan and continue whisking continuously until the chocolate chips have fully melted and are incorporated, creating a glossy, rich chocolate base.
- Add Flavors: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the pure peppermint extract and vanilla extract, blending the flavors evenly. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness if desired by adding more sugar as preferred.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with a generous swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch. Serve immediately to enjoy warm.
Notes
- For a darker chocolate flavor, substitute semi sweet chocolate chips with bittersweet chocolate chips.
- To make this recipe dairy free, use full fat coconut milk and dairy free chocolate chips.
- Add a shot of espresso for a delicious mocha twist.
- For an adult version, add a splash of peppermint schnapps.
