This Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the cozy drink you need! It’s sweet, creamy, and has a burst of peppermint that will warm your heart.
Honestly, nothing beats snuggling up with a big mug of this chocolatey goodness. It’s like a warm hug from a candy cane! 🎄✨ I love topping mine with whipped cream for the perfect treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives your hot chocolate that rich creaminess we all love. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use 2% or almond milk, but it may not be as thick and creamy.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are great for this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous, dark chocolate adds a deeper flavor, or you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
Peppermint Extract: This is what brings the festive flavor! If you don’t have peppermint extract, try peppermint syrup or even vanilla extract as a more subtle flavor. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
Whipped Cream: I highly recommend real whipped cream for the topping. However, store-bought whipped cream or even dairy-free options work well if you’re pressed for time. For a fun twist, use chocolate whipped cream!
Why Is Whisking Important for Smooth Hot Chocolate?
Whisking is essential in this recipe to prevent lumps and create a silky texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a whisk to mix the milk, cream, cocoa powder, and sugar over medium heat until fully combined.
- Continue whisking as it heats up. This keeps the mixture smooth and helps the sugar dissolve.
- Once you add the chocolate chips, keep whisking until they melt completely and avoid any clumps.
Taking the time to whisk properly makes all the difference in achieving that dreamy hot chocolate consistency!
Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
- Candy canes, for stirring and garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and make, so it’s perfect for a cozy evening by the fire or as a festive treat for guests. Just whip up the ingredients, and you’ll have rich, creamy hot chocolate ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat, whisking continually. You want it hot enough for steam to rise, but not boiling—this should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Chocolate:
Once the mixture is hot, carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate) and stir until they are completely melted and smooth—this should take just a minute or two.
3. Flavor with Peppermint:
Stir in the peppermint extract to bring that festive flavor to your hot chocolate. Taste it and adjust if you’d like it a little more minty!
4. Serve and Garnish:
Now, pour the delicious hot chocolate into mugs. Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top. If you’d like, add a whole candy cane to each mug for stirring and a cute garnish!
5. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s warm and cozy. Enjoy your homemade Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate with friends or family, and make wonderful holiday memories!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture and creaminess may vary slightly with different milk types.
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter hot chocolate, you can increase the sugar by a couple of tablespoons or add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or sweetened condensed milk while stirring in the chocolate chips.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftover hot chocolate in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
How to Thicken the Hot Chocolate?
If you like your hot chocolate thicker, consider adding more chocolate chips or a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to the milk mixture as it heats. This will give you that extra rich texture!
