This Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a cozy treat that warms your heart! Made with rich chocolate and a hint of mint, it’s perfect for chilly nights.
Adding whipped cream and crushed candy canes on top makes it feel like a holiday party in a cup! I love sipping this while watching Christmas movies with my family—it just brings the joy! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess to your hot chocolate. If you need a lighter option, try 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes your hot chocolate rich. You can substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, or skip it entirely for a lighter drink.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use a good quality cocoa for the best flavor. If you don’t have cocoa powder, chocolate syrup can work, but start with a small amount and adjust for sweetness and chocolate intensity.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Chocolate chips add richness and texture. Dark chocolate is a great substitute if you want a more intense flavor. You can even use white chocolate for a different twist!
Peppermint Extract: This gives the festive minty flavor. If you don’t have peppermint extract, crushed peppermint candies can serve as a substitute, though be cautious with the amount to avoid overwhelming sweetness.
How Do I Make the Creamy Hot Chocolate Smooth?
The key to smooth hot chocolate lies in how you mix and heat the ingredients. Start by warming your milk and cream gently. Never let it boil to avoid curdling. Use a whisk to mix in the cocoa powder and sugar—this helps dissolve them well!
- Combine ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until smooth; add chocolate and melt completely.
- Incorporate the peppermint extract at the end for maximum flavor.
Pour it into mugs, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with candy canes for that festive touch. Enjoy your rich and creamy Christmas treat!
Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed peppermint candy canes (for garnish)
- Mini marshmallows (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take about 10 minutes of your time. It’s quick to prepare, and in no time, you’ll have the perfect cup of warm hot chocolate to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the whole milk, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Turn the heat to medium and whisk everything together until it’s warm and well combined, making sure the cocoa and sugar completely dissolve.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
Once the mixture is warm, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Keep stirring gently until all the chocolate has melted and the mixture is rich and smooth. Be sure not to let it boil; we just want it hot!
3. Flavor with Peppermint:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract. This will give your hot chocolate that delightful minty flavor that makes it festive!
4. Serve:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top each one with a generous dollop of whipped cream, making it look pretty and inviting.
5. Add Festive Touches:
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes on top of the whipped cream for that extra holiday flavor and a pop of color. If you like, you can add mini marshmallows for even more sweetness and charm!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate immediately. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this cozy treat while you celebrate the holiday season!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk Instead?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be great alternatives if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just ensure you choose unsweetened versions for better control over sweetness.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Sweeter?
If you’d like your hot chocolate sweeter, simply add more sugar or a sweetener of your choice. You could also use sweetened chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor!
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the hot chocolate in advance! Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk while reheating for the right consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat and stir well before serving. Don’t forget to top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint again for that fresh taste!