There is something utterly magical about settling down with a cup of homemade hot chocolate that warms your heart and soothes your soul. This Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe is exactly that kind of cozy indulgence, blending luxurious, creamy chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint to create a festive treat that feels like a warm hug in a mug. It’s delightfully rich, perfectly sweetened, and offers that enchanting minty finish that awakens your taste buds and lifts your spirits, whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or sharing a heartfelt moment with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first joyful step toward creating a cup of pure comfort. Each component plays a vital role in building the deep chocolate flavor, creamy texture, and that refreshing peppermint twist which makes this recipe so irresistible.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides a rich, creamy base that gives the drink a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds extra velvety texture and richness to make the hot chocolate truly decadent.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts smoothly to create a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Boosts the intensity of the chocolate taste with a touch of natural bitterness.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the mixture perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract: Delivers that crisp, cool peppermint note to brighten every sip.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate’s richness and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the cocoa’s depth.
- Whipped cream for topping: Adds lightness and a creamy contrast to the rich beverage.
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish: Creates a festive crunch and emphasizes the peppermint flavor.
How to Make Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Milk and Cream
Begin by gently heating the whole milk and heavy cream together in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Your goal is to bring the mixture to a steamy warmth, just shy of boiling. This careful heating ensures the creamy base is ready to smoothly incorporate the cocoa and chocolate without scorching.
Step 2: Mix in Cocoa Powder, Sugar, and Salt
Once your milk and cream are hot, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until all these dry ingredients dissolve seamlessly into the liquid, leaving you with a smooth, dark chocolate canvas that’s both rich and inviting in color.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Chips
Add in the semi-sweet chocolate chips next. Stir continuously with your whisk as they melt into the warm mixture, transforming it into a luxuriously thick and creamy hot chocolate. This step creates the signature richness that makes this recipe so special.
Step 4: Flavor with Peppermint and Vanilla Extracts
Remove your pot from the heat and stir in the peppermint and vanilla extracts. These small but powerful additions elevate the flavor profile, giving you that unmistakable holiday-inspired charm and a subtle, sophisticated finish. Taste your creation and adjust any of the flavors if needed—just a touch more peppermint if you crave a bolder mint essence.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Pour your freshly made Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate into your favorite mugs, ready for that final touch of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. These garnishes bring texture and extra flair, making every sip as delightful to the eyes as to the palate.
How to Serve Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream is an absolute must for this recipe, offering a fluffy, cool contrast to the warm drink. Top it with crushed peppermint candies or even a candy cane for an added festive crunch and extra minty punch. You could also dust some cocoa powder or finely shaved dark chocolate over the whipped cream for a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with simple treats like buttery shortbread cookies, classic gingerbread, or even a slice of rich chocolate cake. These cozy companions help balance the drink’s bold peppermint flavor and add delightful texture and sweetness to your break.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve your Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate in clear glass mugs so you can admire its sumptuous color layered beneath the snowy whipped cream. Add a candy cane stirrer or tie a ribbon around the mug for an extra-special presentation that wows guests or brightens your solo cozy moments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to give it a good stir or gentle reheat before serving again, as the chocolate might settle or thicken as it cools.
Freezing
Freezing this recipe isn’t ideal because dairy-based drinks can separate when thawed. However, if you must freeze, pour the hot chocolate into a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion, and consume within two weeks. Thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your stored Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling as this may change the texture. Reheating gently will preserve the creamy consistency and delicious flavor you fell in love with initially.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer. Just make sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the recipe fully vegan and enjoy the same peppermint delight with a dairy-free twist.
How much peppermint extract should I use?
Stick to 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract like the recipe suggests. Peppermint extract is very potent, and too much can overpower the rich chocolate and make the drink taste medicinal. Always add it carefully and taste as you go.
Can I make this recipe less sweet?
Yes! You can reduce the granulated sugar amount if you prefer a less sweet drink. Just keep in mind that the chocolate chips and whipped cream also contribute sweetness, so adjust carefully to maintain a balanced flavor.
What’s the best type of chocolate to use?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips work beautifully here because they melt evenly and provide a balanced sweetness that complements the cocoa powder and peppermint. You can experiment with bittersweet or milk chocolate chips if you like, but adjust sugar accordingly.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe yields about 3 generous servings, perfect for sharing with loved ones or keeping a couple of mugs for yourself to enjoy throughout a chilly evening.
Final Thoughts
There really is nothing quite like sipping on a cup of this Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe during the cooler months when you want to feel warm and festive all at once. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and has just the right touch of peppermint magic to make every moment a little brighter. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved go-to treat for your cozy days ahead!
Print
Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate, a creamy and decadent holiday beverage made with melted semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Perfect for cozy winter evenings, it’s topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.
Ingredients
Dairy Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Chocolate Mixture
- 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- pinch of salt
Flavorings
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- whipped cream for topping
- crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Dairy Base: In a medium saucepan, warm the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat until the mixture is hot but has not yet reached boiling point, preparing the base for the chocolate to melt smoothly.
- Mix Cocoa and Sugar: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until all are fully dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth with an even chocolate flavor.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, continuing to whisk until they completely melt, creating a rich and creamy hot chocolate mixture.
- Flavor Infusion: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness or peppermint flavor as desired to suit your palate.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, then top each serving with a generous amount of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies to add a festive crunch and burst of flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2 percent milk and omit the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- To make this dairy-free, use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Be cautious when adding peppermint extract since too much can overpower the drink’s flavor; start with the recommended amount and adjust gradually.
