This Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the ultimate cozy treat! It’s rich, chocolatey, and has a refreshing twist from the peppermint. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
Nothing says “holiday spirit” like sipping on this delicious drink. I love topping it with whipped cream and extra candy canes. Who could resist that? 🎄
Making this hot chocolate is super easy! Just mix the ingredients, heat it up, and enjoy—it’s a festive hug in a mug! I can’t wait to share it with friends by the fireplace.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives a creamier texture, but feel free to use almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk of your choice for a lighter version.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds depth. You could substitute it with Dutch-process cocoa for a smoother flavor, though it may change the color slightly.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: I love the richness of semi-sweet chocolate. You can use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, or swap with white chocolate for a sweeter option.
Peppermint Extract: This ingredient gives it a festive kick. If you prefer less minty flavor, try peppermint syrup or omit it entirely for classic hot chocolate.
How Do I Get the Creamiest Hot Chocolate?
The key to a creamy hot chocolate lies in how you heat the milk and blend the ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium-low heat to gently warm the milk to avoid scalding, which can change the texture and taste.
- Whisk continuously, especially when adding cocoa and sugar, to ensure everything blends smoothly without lumps.
- When mixing in the chocolate chips, take the pan off heat. Stir until fully melted for a rich and creamy finish.
Enjoy this comforting drink—you can customize it with toppings like whipped cream and candy canes, making it fun for everyone!
Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for garnish
- Mini marshmallows (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients and heating them up. Once it’s all melted and combined, you can serve it right away. Simple and festive!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them together over medium heat. Keep stirring until the cocoa powder and sugar have fully dissolved and the milk is warm but not boiling. This will create a rich base for your hot chocolate.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
Once the milk is warm, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the saucepan. Stir continuously to help the chocolate melt completely into the mixture. You want it silky smooth—this is what makes your hot chocolate extra delicious!
3. Flavor with Peppermint:
After removing the saucepan from heat, carefully stir in the peppermint extract. This gives your hot chocolate that delightful minty flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season!
4. Pour & Garnish:
Use a ladle to pour the warm hot chocolate into mugs. Now comes the fun part—top each cup with a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you’d like, add mini marshmallows on top for extra sweetness. Finally, sprinkle some crushed candy canes or peppermint candies to make it truly festive!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your cozy Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate right away! It’s a perfect drink to share with family and friends or enjoy by yourself while snuggled up by the fire. Cheers to a warm holiday season!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with any non-dairy milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly depending on the type of milk you use.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of sugar to 1 tablespoon or even omit it entirely. The chocolate and cocoa powder will still provide a rich flavor, and you can adjust the sweetness to your taste with the toppings!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hot chocolate mixture ahead of time, just don’t add the whipped cream or peppermint garnish until you’re ready to serve. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until hot. You can refresh it with a splash of milk if needed!
