Description
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe offers a creamy, rich chocolatey drink infused with refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for cozy winter evenings or holiday celebrations, it’s made by gently heating milk and cream with finely chopped chocolate, then flavored with vanilla and peppermint extracts. Topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ounces chocolate chips (chopped fine, about 1/2 cup or 85 grams)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- pinch of table salt
Optional Toppings
- whipped cream (for serving)
- candy canes, crushed (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat Milk and Cream: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the whole milk and heavy cream for 3 to 4 minutes. Be careful not to bring the mixture to a boil, as this will affect the texture and flavor.
- Melt Chocolate and Sugar: Add the finely chopped chocolate chips and granulated sugar into the warm milk and cream. Stir continuously, but intermittently, until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth, about 8 minutes.
- Add Flavorings and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of table salt to enhance the richness and balance the flavors.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into serving cups. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top if desired for an extra festive and minty crunch.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and a smoother texture.
- Do not allow the milk and cream to boil to prevent curdling.
- Adjust peppermint extract to taste; a little goes a long way.
- Optional toppings like whipped cream and crushed candy canes add texture and enhance the holiday feel.
- This recipe serves about two 8-ounce cups.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint hot chocolate, holiday drink, festive beverage, creamy hot chocolate, peppermint extract, chocolate drink
