Learn how to make the best peppermint hot chocolate! This creamy cocoa recipe is so quick and easy to make, and so delicious…you’ll love the delicious mint flavor! The perfect holiday treat!
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It’s the season when everything is comfortable and cozy! At this time of year, we all crave delicious chocolate and peppermint treats (talk about a classic combination). I absolutely love this delicious hot cocoa.
You’ll love this delicious Peppermint Hot Chocolate. I’ve been making this fun drink for years and it’s a family holiday favorite…and soon it’ll be yours too!
This simple recipe uses only a few basic ingredients. You probably already have most of it in your pantry. It’s very easy to make and best of all, it tastes amazing.
Enjoy this rich, chocolatey drink for any holiday occasion (Christmas time is especially special) or anytime you feel like having it. Recipes come together quickly so you can always treat yourself. And don’t forget the toppings! I love it piled high with decadent whipped cream and crushed candy canes, but it’s also delicious on its own or topped with marshmallows.
Ready to start drinking? Then keep reading to find out more.
![Mug of peppermint hot cocoa on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-cocoa-2.jpeg)
material
This mouth-watering mint hot chocolate drink uses basic ingredients that are available just about anywhere. Here’s what you need:
- milk – You can use any type of milk, but we recommend using it. whole milk for best results. For an even richer, creamier drink, combine half-and-half (or heavy cream) with whole milk. To make the recipe vegan, simply use your favorite unsweetened dairy-free milk. We recommend choosing something rich and creamy. oat milk or soy milk (This is my favorite).
- cocoa powder – This recipe requires unsweetened cocoa powder (Both natural and Dutch process varieties work fine). Look for it in the baking section of your grocery store. Easily available Hershey’s is also a good choice, but for the best, most decadent results, use a premium cocoa such as: Guitard, Scharffen Bergeror Valrhona.
- sugar – sweetens drinks Granulated sugar. Other sweeteners (such as brown sugar or sugar-free alternatives) can also be used, but you may need to experiment with amounts to find what works best for you.
- peppermint – The classic mint flavor of this drink peppermint extract. In a pinch, mint extract Maybe there is, but it just doesn’t have the same enthusiasm. Tip: If you plan to make this recipe during the holiday season, purchase the extract 1-2 months in advance. December can be hard to find!
- topping – The best part is the toppings!Standard whipped cream and marshmallows (these are vegan marshmallows Perfect if you follow a vegetarian/vegan diet) is an all-time favorite. Or you can get creative. We’ll share lots of fun ideas below!
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free (be sure to check the label if you have any allergies). It can easily be made dairy-free/vegan by using plant-based milks and toppings.
This is also required
To prepare the drink, you’ll need a medium saucepan (preferably one with a heavy bottom), measuring cups and spoons, and whisk Mix ingredients. Of course you’ll also need a mug.I used these rustic white mug (Also available in different colors), I really like it. They look handmade and are very generous in size (big enough to hold a large serving with lots of toppings).
![Ingredients for peppermint hot chocolate arranged on a marble counter.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-ingredients.jpg)
![Ingredients for peppermint hot chocolate arranged on a marble counter.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-ingredients.jpg)
![Ingredients for peppermint hot chocolate arranged on a marble counter.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-ingredients.jpg)
![Ingredients for peppermint hot chocolate arranged on a marble counter.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-ingredients.jpg)
How to make peppermint hot chocolate
This classic, comforting drink couldn’t be easier to make. A detailed recipe card is below, but here’s a quick overview of the steps:
- Mix the ingredients. First, add milk, cocoa powder, and sugar to a medium saucepan and mix well. It won’t be completely smooth at first. Keep whisking and the lumps will slowly disappear as the drink warms.
- Cook until hot. Warm the drink over medium heat, whisking frequently, until hot.
- Add peppermint and enjoy. Once the cocoa is hot (no need to boil), stir in the peppermint extract and any optional additions you wish to use (such as chopped chocolate). Whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed, then serve with your favorite toppings.
That’s all there is to it. You’re ready to enjoy your homemade peppermint hot chocolate. This recipe is so easy and delicious that you’ll want to treat yourself all winter long.
Tip: This recipe makes 2 large servings or 3 small servings. To serve a crowd, he simply doubles, triples, or quadruples the recipe as needed.
![A photo collage with step-by-step instructions on how to make peppermint hot chocolate.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-peppermint-hot-chocolate.jpg)
![A photo collage with step-by-step instructions on how to make peppermint hot chocolate.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-peppermint-hot-chocolate.jpg)
![A photo collage with step-by-step instructions on how to make peppermint hot chocolate.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-peppermint-hot-chocolate.jpg)
![A photo collage with step-by-step instructions on how to make peppermint hot chocolate.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-peppermint-hot-chocolate.jpg)
variation
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s super easy to customize. Here are some ideas to try.
- sweeter – This recipe is not too sweet. If you prefer sweeter hot chocolate, add more sugar (1 tablespoon at a time).
- extra rich – Mix chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the heated cocoa before serving to make the drink even more indulgent. Replace half of the milk with heavy cream and use high-quality cocoa powder. Guitard, Scharffen Bergeror Valrhonapeppermint cocoa also gives it an even richer flavor.
- mint – Peppermint extract is most effective, but can be used instead. mint extract as needed. Please note that the taste will be bland.
- vegan – To make this recipe vegan, just use plant-based milk (I like it) soy milkwith a neutral flavor and thick consistency) and toppings.
- spike – You can easily turn this cocoa into a cocktail by substituting peppermint schnapps for the cocoa extract…in fact, it’s one of my favorite holiday treats! For tips, see my delicious Check out our bougie hot chocolate recipe.
![Finished drink mug placed on a red and white napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/hot-chocolate-with-peppermint-2.jpeg)
![Finished drink mug placed on a red and white napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/hot-chocolate-with-peppermint-2.jpeg)
![Finished drink mug placed on a red and white napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/hot-chocolate-with-peppermint-2.jpeg)
![Finished drink mug placed on a red and white napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/hot-chocolate-with-peppermint-2.jpeg)
topping ideas
The most fun part is choosing the toppings. Try one of her easy ideas below, or mix and match.
- Whipped cream -My favorite hot cocoa topping! If you want to make the most decadent whipped cream, I recommend making it yourself (and it’s super easy). See recipe card below for instructions.
- marshmallow – Gooey marshmallows are also a standard topping.For a more fun twist on the traditional version, try: gourmet marshmallows, mini peppermint marshmallows (There are more vegan options!), or these cute christmas marshmallow (Shaped like a tree, Santa, or candy cane).
- candy cane – For this hot chocolate, candy cane for your drink. I like to add whole sugar cane for stirring and sprinkle crushed sugar cane on top.these are edible peppermint spoon It would be cute too! Tip: To crush candy canes, place a few in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- shaved chocolate – Grate high-quality chocolate on top of the whipped cream for a beautiful finish.a microplane zester Works perfectly for this!
- Furikake – Add sprinkles to your drink to jazz it up…preferably served over a dollop of whipped cream.These festive and colorful holiday sprinkles and these adorable mini candy cane sprinkles Both would be great fun!
- cookie – For an even more delicious topping, just add cookies. I like to use elongated cookies like fancy pirouette cookies (chocolate fudge or french vanilla It would be delicious) or this coco mint pocky.You can also serve peppermint biscotti or peppermint milanese cookies on the side.
![Close-up of the finished drink topped with whipped cream and crushed candy cane pieces.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mint-hot-chocolate-1.jpeg)
![Close-up of the finished drink topped with whipped cream and crushed candy cane pieces.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mint-hot-chocolate-1.jpeg)
![Close-up of the finished drink topped with whipped cream and crushed candy cane pieces.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mint-hot-chocolate-1.jpeg)
![Close-up of the finished drink topped with whipped cream and crushed candy cane pieces.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/mint-hot-chocolate-1.jpeg)
storage
If you have leftover cocoa, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. mason jar best for this) for up to 3 days. When ready to drink, warm gently in a small saucepan or in the microwave and be sure to stir well before serving.
Related recipes
Looking for more comforting drink ideas? Then try one of these delicious recipes.
![The finished drink is served on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-cocoa-1.jpg)
![The finished drink is served on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-cocoa-1.jpg)
![The finished drink is served on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-cocoa-1.jpg)
![The finished drink is served on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-cocoa-1.jpg)
![Peppermint hot chocolate is served in a white mug on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-2-150x150.jpeg)
![Peppermint hot chocolate is served in a white mug on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-2-150x150.jpeg)
![Peppermint hot chocolate is served in a white mug on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-2-150x150.jpeg)
![Peppermint hot chocolate is served in a white mug on a plaid napkin.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-2-150x150.jpeg)
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peppermint hot chocolate
Treat yourself to this decadent (and easy to make) Peppermint Hot Cocoa this winter.
Quantity: 3 people
calorie: 210kcal
material
For hot chocolate:
- 3 cup whole milk
- Four tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoon Granulated sugar (or more depending on your preference)
- 1/2 tea spoon peppermint extract
For toppings (optional):
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon Granulated sugar
- 1 crushed candy cane
Instructions
Prepare hot chocolate.
Pour the milk into a small saucepan. Add cocoa powder and sugar and whisk until almost combined.
Heat over medium heat and continue whisking until warm. Do not boil.
Stir in the peppermint extract and divide the cocoa between 2-3 mugs.
Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed candy cane pieces, or serve with your favorite toppings. enjoy!
Prepare the toppings:
While the cocoa is heating, combine the cream and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer.
Using the whisk attachment, mix until the cream maintains medium-to-stiff peaks (according to your preference), gradually increasing the speed as the cream thickens.
Note
Feel free to double, triple, or even quadruple the recipe if you’re serving a crowd.
This recipe can be made with any type of milk, but whole milk works best. For very thick cocoa, use half cream (or half and half) and half whole milk.
For vegan options, substitute your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk. Creamy options like oats or soy are best.this soy milk is my favorite…rich, creamy, and neutral in taste (it tastes just like regular milk!).
Whipped cream can also be prepared manually using a hand mixer or with a whisk.
Be sure to read all the information before this recipe card for tons of tips, recipe variations, topping ideas, and more!
nutrition
calorie: 210kcal
![Mug of peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream and candy canes.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-recipe-27.jpeg)
![Mug of peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream and candy canes.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-recipe-27.jpeg)
![Mug of peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream and candy canes.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-recipe-27.jpeg)
![Mug of peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream and candy canes.](https://hellolittlehome.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/peppermint-hot-chocolate-recipe-27.jpeg)