Description
This Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a decadent holiday beverage that combines creamy milk and heavy cream with melted semi-sweet chocolate and a hint of refreshing peppermint. Topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies, it’s the perfect cozy drink for winter evenings or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Chocolate Mix
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Toppings
- whipped cream for topping
- crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions
- Warm the Dairy: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm the mixture until it is steaming but not boiling to ensure a smooth base.
- Add Cocoa and Sweeteners: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until all ingredients are fully dissolved and the mixture is uniform.
- Melt the Chocolate: Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the warm dairy mixture. Keep whisking until the chocolate chips have melted completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Flavor the Hot Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract, blending the flavors well without letting the mixture boil.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and garnish with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
Notes
- Adjust the peppermint extract to your personal preference; a small amount provides ample flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- To make the hot chocolate extra rich and intense, try using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
