If you’re craving a cozy, indulgent treat that tastes like a festive celebration in a mug, this Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe is exactly what you need. Velvety smooth chocolate combined with a hint of refreshing peppermint creates a perfect harmony that warms your soul on chilly days. It’s wonderfully rich yet balanced, making it an instant favorite to share with friends or to enjoy as your little self-care ritual. Whether it’s a quiet winter night or a holiday gathering, this recipe brings that comforting, magical sparkle you’re looking for every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this hot chocolate truly special. Each element plays an essential role in building that lush texture and festive flavor that defines this drink.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides a creamy base that’s rich and smooth without being heavy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious thickness and a silky mouthfeel to the drink.
- 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips or chopped semi sweet chocolate: Delivers deep, luscious chocolate flavor that melts perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Boosts chocolate intensity and contributes to that gorgeous dark hue.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the drink just right to balance the cocoa and peppermint.
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract: Adds that unmistakable cool peppermint kick that brightens the entire beverage.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors and enhances the chocolate with a warm aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Intensifies the chocolate flavor by balancing sweetness and bitterness.
- Whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies (optional): Perfect for topping and adding an extra festive crunch.
How to Make Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Milk and Cream
Start by gently warming the whole milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium low heat. Be careful to heat it until it’s hot but not boiling. This slow heating helps build the creamy base that makes this hot chocolate so rich and velvety—just like dessert in a cup.
Step 2: Whisk in Cocoa, Sugar, and Salt
Once warmed, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisking ensures everything dissolves smoothly without lumps, creating a deep, chocolatey canvas for your peppermint notes to shine.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
Add the semi sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate to the pan. Stir continuously as the chocolate melts, transforming the mixture into a luxuriously creamy blend. This is what takes your hot chocolate from ordinary to extraordinary rich.
Step 4: Add Peppermint and Vanilla Extracts
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. These extracts elevate the flavor, making the hot chocolate refreshingly festive and round with warmth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, but be cautious with the peppermint since a little goes a long way.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Pour your rich peppermint creation into mugs and get ready for pure joy. It’s best enjoyed while still warm and cozy.
How to Serve Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this hot chocolate more than a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top. The cream softens the peppermint’s intensity while adding an airy texture, and the candies offer a delightful crunch that feels truly festive.
Side Dishes
This hot chocolate pairs beautifully with classic holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, biscotti, or buttery shortbread. Their crunchy texture contrasts perfectly with the smooth drink, making it an irresistible combination for afternoon indulgence or after-dinner dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the drink in clear glass mugs to show off those lush layers topped with whipped cream and bits of candy. You can also rim the mug with melted chocolate or dip the rim in crushed peppermint for a festive touch. Add a mini candy cane as a stirring stick for a functional and charming decoration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover hot chocolate, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It will thicken slightly, so give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This recipe doesn’t freeze particularly well because the dairy can separate upon thawing. It’s best to prepare fresh servings, but if you need to freeze, store only the milk and chocolate mixture before adding the peppermint and vanilla extracts.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching and to bring back that creamy texture. Avoid using a microwave as it can heat unevenly and affect the smoothness.
FAQs
Can I make this hot chocolate dairy free?
Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with almond milk and heavy cream with coconut cream. These alternatives still give you a creamy texture without dairy.
How much peppermint extract should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon, which is usually perfect. Peppermint extract is very potent, so it’s best to start with that amount and add a tiny bit more if you like, but don’t overdo it because it can overpower the chocolate.
What kind of chocolate is best?
Semi sweet chocolate is ideal for achieving a balanced sweetness with rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with dark chocolate for a deeper cocoa taste or milk chocolate for something sweeter.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients according to how many servings you want to make. Just be sure to whisk well and adjust heating times accordingly to keep everything melting smoothly.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! This hot chocolate is a great treat for kids as long as they aren’t sensitive to peppermint. You could reduce the peppermint or leave it out if preferred.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe that turns an ordinary drink into a heartwarming experience. It’s creamy, chocolaty, and wonderfully festive all at once, perfect for creating little moments of joy on cold days. So grab your ingredients, make a batch, and let this delicious treat become your new favorite winter indulgence.
Print
Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this rich peppermint hot chocolate, a creamy and festive holiday beverage made with whole milk, heavy cream, and semi-sweet chocolate. Infused with peppermint and vanilla extracts, this comforting drink is perfect for chilly winter days and garnished with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies for an extra touch of flavor and celebration.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Garnish (Optional)
- Whipped cream
- Crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Warm the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm gently, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling to prevent scorching.
- Add Cocoa, Sugar, and Salt: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture turns rich and creamy.
- Incorporate Extracts: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and pure vanilla extract, blending well to combine the flavors evenly. Taste and adjust the sweetness, if desired.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Optionally, top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies for a festive finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the comforting warmth.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.
- Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate.
- Be cautious with peppermint extract as it is potent and can overpower the drink quickly.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute almond milk for whole milk and coconut cream for heavy cream.
