This Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a fun twist on the classic drink! It’s rich, creamy, and filled with the tasty flavor of peppermint. Perfect for warming up chilly evenings!
Who doesn’t love a hot cup of cocoa topped with fluffy marshmallows? I always feel like a kid again when I sip on this delightful treat during the holidays! 🎄☕
Making this hot chocolate is so easy! Just mix cocoa, milk, and peppermint, then top it with whipped cream. It’s a festive drink that always brings a smile to my face!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich and creamy texture, but you could use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk you prefer. Just remember, the creaminess might vary based on your choice!
Heavy Cream: This adds a wonderful richness. If you’re looking for lower fat options, you could swap this with extra milk. Coconut cream also works for a dairy-free treat.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a great balance of sweetness. If you’re aiming for something healthier, dark chocolate is a tasty alternative. You can even use cocoa powder mixed with a little extra sugar if you’re in a pinch!
Peppermint Extract: This really brings that festive flavor. If you’re out, a bit of peppermint syrup can do the trick. Just use it sparingly, as it’s usually sweeter.
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Hot Chocolate?
The secret to a smooth and creamy hot chocolate lies in your preparation. Start by gently heating the milk and cream together. You don’t want it to boil, just warm enough to melt the chocolate smoothly.
- Heat the milk and cream over medium heat until it gets steamy—this will help dissolve the cocoa and sugar easily.
- Whisk in cocoa powder first, as it can clump if added after the chocolate. Stir until it’s fully dissolved before adding the chocolate.
- When adding chocolate chips, stir continuously until melted and smooth. This prevents any stuck bits at the bottom of your pan!
Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for garnish)
- Optional: mini marshmallows (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After mixing everything together, you can enjoy your warm drink right away. Perfect for cozy winter evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk and Cream:
In a medium saucepan, combine the 2 cups of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is steaming but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
2. Mix in Cocoa and Sugar:
Once the milk and cream are warm, whisk in the 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Keep stirring until everything is fully dissolved and combined.
3. Add the Chocolate:
Now it’s time to add the 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. Stir continuously until all the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Flavor It Up:
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This will give your hot chocolate that delightful peppermint flavor!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top each serving with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
6. Finish with Festive Toppings:
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy cane pieces over the whipped cream for a delightful crunch. For extra sweetness and fun, feel free to add mini marshmallows as well!
7. Enjoy:
Serve warm with a peppermint stick or a candy cane for stirring, and enjoy the cozy holiday spirit!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind that the creaminess may vary depending on the type of non-dairy milk you choose. For an even richer texture, you might want to add a bit of coconut cream or a splash of non-dairy heavy cream.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the hot chocolate as directed and allow it to cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to recombine the ingredients.
How Should I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture, as it may thicken when stored.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste! Start with the recommended 2 tablespoons, then taste the mixture after adding the chocolate. You can always add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter hot chocolate.
