Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Name: Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (or more, depending on your preference); Whipped cream, for serving; Crushed peppermint candies or candy cane, for garnish; 2 cups of milk; 1/2 cup of heavy cream; 4 ounces of chopped bitter chocolate; 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder

Warm up this winter with our decadent Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe. Rich, creamy, and infused with the refreshing taste of peppermint, it's the perfect comfort drink for chilly days.

American Cuisine

December 21, 2023

Difficulty Easy

Servings 1 people

Preparation 10 mins

Cooking 10 mins

Total 20 mins

Recipe Contents

Ingredients Directions Nutrition Equipments Tips

Ingredients

2 cups of milk
1/2 cup of heavy cream
4 ounces of chopped bitter chocolate
3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (or more, depending on your preference)
Whipped cream, for serving
Crushed peppermint candies or candy cane, for garnish

Directions

In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream (if using). Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
Add the chopped dark chocolate (and cocoa powder if desired) to the milk. Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Stir in the sugar and peppermint extract. Taste and adjust the peppermint and sweetness to your liking.
Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to let it boil.
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs.
Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy cane pieces over the whipped cream for a festive touch.
Serve the peppermint hot chocolate warm for a comforting and delicious experience.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Serves 1

Amount Per Serving

Calories400

% Daily Value*

Protein 8 g16%

Total Fat 20 g25.6%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Tips

Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer, more decadent flavor. Chocolate chips are convenient, but a good quality bar chopped into small pieces can elevate the taste.
While whole milk gives a creamy texture, you can substitute it with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version. For more, check out our ‘Types of Milk’ article.
Peppermint extract can be overpowering, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Heat the mixture gently to avoid boiling, as this can cause the milk to form a skin on top.
Stir constantly. Keep stirring while the chocolate melts to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.
For an extra chocolatey flavor, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
Garnish with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies for both flavor and a festive look. A cinnamon stick can also be a nice addition.
Adjust the sugar according to your preference and the sweetness of your chocolate.

Rate This Recipe

As the temperature drops, there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of Peppermint Hot Chocolate. This recipe combines the rich, velvety taste of hot chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist, making it an ideal treat for the holiday season or a cozy winter evening. Easy to make and delightfully indulgent, this peppermint hot chocolate will become a staple in your winter beverage rotation.

Equipment for this recipe

Measuring Cup

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Mixing Bowls

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Chef Pan

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Origin of The Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Peppermint Hot Chocolate, often associated with the festive cheer of the holiday season, has a rich history that adds to its charm. Originating from the combination of traditional hot chocolate and the refreshing zest of peppermint, this delightful beverage has become a winter favorite in many cultures. The exact origins are a bit murky, but it's clear that the concept of adding peppermint to hot chocolate has been embraced worldwide, particularly in regions where peppermint is a popular flavor in confectioneries and desserts.

In recent years, commercial brands like Swiss Miss have popularized Peppermint Hot Chocolate by offering convenient, ready-to-make packets. Swiss Miss Peppermint Hot Chocolate, for instance, combines the ease of instant hot cocoa mix with the festive flavor of peppermint, making it accessible for anyone to enjoy a cup of this seasonal treat without the need for elaborate preparation. These ready-made mixes have played a significant role in cementing peppermint hot chocolate’s status as a staple winter beverage, especially in the United States.

The joy of making homemade hot chocolate with peppermint, however, lies in the ability to customize it to personal taste. From choosing the type of chocolate to the intensity of the peppermint flavor and the creaminess of the milk, each element can be tailored to individual preferences. This versatility makes peppermint hot chocolate not just a beverage but an experience – one that can be shared and enjoyed in countless ways during the cold winter months. Whether it's following a traditional recipe or using a convenient mix like Swiss Miss, hot chocolate with peppermint remains a beloved comfort drink, evoking warmth and festive joy.

What Type of Milk Is Best for Peppermint Hot Chocolate?

Choosing the right milk for your Peppermint Hot Chocolate can significantly influence both the flavor and texture of the drink. Here are various options and what they bring to your hot chocolate:

1. Whole Milk:

Texture and Flavor: Offers a rich, creamy texture and a neutral base that allows the chocolate and peppermint flavors to shine.

Best For: A classic, indulgent hot chocolate experience.

2. 2% or Skim Milk:

Texture: Lighter than whole milk, resulting in a less creamy but still smooth hot chocolate.

Best For: Those who prefer a lower-fat option without significantly compromising on the creaminess.

3. Soy Milk:

Texture: Similar creaminess to cow's milk, with a slight natural sweetness.

Best For: A dairy-free option that doesn’t stray far from the traditional texture of hot chocolate.

4. Almond Milk:

Texture: Generally thinner than cow's milk, but with a distinct, nutty flavor.

Best For: Those looking for a lower-calorie, dairy-free option and enjoy the taste of almonds.

5. Oat Milk:

Texture: Creamy and rich, often considered one of the best plant-based milk for hot beverages.

Best For: A dairy-free and nut-free option that still provides a creamy texture similar to whole milk.

6. Coconut Milk:

Texture: Can be quite rich and creamy, especially if using canned coconut milk.

Best For: Those who like a hint of coconut flavor in their hot chocolate, offering a tropical twist.

7. Cashew Milk:

Texture: Creamy and with a subtle nutty flavor, though usually lighter than soy or oat milk.

Best For: A dairy-free option that’s less sweet and nutty compared to almond milk.

Each type of milk can change the flavor profile and consistency of your Peppermint Hot Chocolate, so it's worth experimenting to find which one suits your taste best. Also, consider any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as lactose intolerance, vegan diet, or calorie considerations, when selecting your milk.

What To Serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate?

Serving Peppermint Hot Chocolate effectively enhances the overall experience of enjoying this delightful winter beverage.

Top the hot chocolate with whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy, or a small candy cane. For an extra touch of indulgence, add a few marshmallows or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Place a peppermint stick or candy cane in the mug to be used as a stirrer. This not only looks festive but also gradually infuses more peppermint flavor into the hot chocolate.

Pair the hot chocolate with complementary snacks such as chocolate chip cookies, shortbread, or gingerbread cookies. This pairing is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening in.

Use a festive or decorative mug to serve the hot chocolate. Serve the hot chocolate warm, but ensure it’s not too hot to drink. A moderate temperature allows the flavors of chocolate and peppermint to be fully appreciated.

Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate:

Recipe byPetite Gourmets