Description
A cozy and festive peppermint hot chocolate recipe made with rich whole milk, cocoa powder, semisweet chocolate chips, and a hint of peppermint extract. Perfect for warming up during the holidays, topped with marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
Garnishes
- Marshmallows
- Whipped cream
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Heat Ingredients: Place the milk, sifted cocoa powder, and granulated sugar in a pot. Cook over medium low heat for about 5 minutes, whisking occasionally until the mixture is warm, at a light simmer but not boiling, and the cocoa and sugar are fully incorporated.
- Melt Chocolate: Add the semisweet chocolate chips to the warm mixture and cook for another 4 minutes, whisking continuously until the chocolate has fully melted and integrated.
- Add Extracts: Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, cooking for an additional 1 minute to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with desired garnishes such as marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed candy canes for a festive finish.
Notes
- Peppermint extract is very strong; ¼ teaspoon provides a balanced mint flavor without overpowering. Adjust with small additional drops if desired.
- Do not let the mixture boil to avoid curdling or separation.
- Using whole milk gives a richer texture, but you can substitute with milk alternatives if preferred.
- Whisking helps keep the mixture smooth and prevents the chocolate from sticking to the pot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
