This Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is a warm hug in a mug! With creamy white chocolate and a splash of peppermint, it’s perfect for chilly days spent indoors.
Top it off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a festive touch. I can never resist sipping this while watching my favorite holiday movies! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Using whole milk makes this drink super creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try 2% milk or even unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change a bit.
White Chocolate: The key ingredient for that sweet, creamy flavor! You can use chocolate chips, but I recommend real chopped white chocolate for a smoother result. If you want a vegan option, go for dairy-free white chocolate.
Peppermint Extract: This gives your hot chocolate that awesome minty flavor. If you can’t find peppermint extract, a few drops of peppermint oil will work, just use it sparingly as it’s quite strong!
Whipped Cream: Always a must for hot chocolate! You can make your own by whipping heavy cream or use store-bought. For a lighter topping, consider using coconut whipped cream for a fun twist.
How Do I Melt the White Chocolate Smoothly?
Melt the white chocolate carefully to avoid clumps or burning. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the milk on medium until warm, but don’t let it boil. This helps the chocolate melt nicely without seizing up.
- Once the milk is warm, reduce the heat to low before adding the chocolate. This prevents it from cooking too fast.
- Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If you notice lumps, don’t hesitate to whisk it or use an immersion blender for a super smooth texture!
Take your time with this part, and enjoy the process—it’s worth it for that delicious hot chocolate!
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 8 ounces white chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candy canes, for garnish
- Candy canes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Peppermint White Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for any cold day or holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk:
Start by taking a medium saucepan and pouring in the whole milk. Heat it over medium heat until it becomes warm but not boiling. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
Once the milk is warm, reduce the heat to low. Now, add the chopped white chocolate to the milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is nice and smooth. Take your time with this step, and make sure everything is well combined!
3. Add Peppermint Flavor:
After the chocolate is melted, add the teaspoon of peppermint extract and stir it in until it’s evenly mixed. This will give your hot chocolate that delicious minty taste!
4. Serve in Mugs:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. It’s nice to fill them to the brim so everyone can enjoy every last drop!
5. Top it Off:
Now for the fun part! Generously top each mug with fluffy whipped cream. Don’t be shy; it makes the drink even more delightful!
6. Garnish:
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes over the whipped cream for that extra festive touch. If you like, you can also hang a whole candy cane on the rim of each mug for a cute presentation.
7. Enjoy Your Treat:
Serve immediately while it’s warm and cozy. Sit back, relax, and take a sip of your creamy, festive Peppermint White Hot Chocolate!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk Instead of Whole Milk?
Yes, you can use 2% milk or even skim milk, but the hot chocolate may be less creamy. For the best flavor and texture, whole milk is recommended, but any milk will work in a pinch!
How Do I Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Peppermint Extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract on hand, you can use peppermint oil—just remember that it’s much stronger, so start with just a drop and adjust to taste. Alternatively, try using vanilla extract for a different flavor twist, but it won’t have that festive minty touch!
Can I Make This Vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the whole milk with your favorite non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk, and use vegan white chocolate. Just check the labels to ensure everything is dairy-free!
