Creamy Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bliss
A cozy winter drink combining rich melted chocolate with fresh peppermint for a smooth, creamy, and refreshing hot cocoa experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups whole milk (480 ml) – can substitute with almond or oat milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (15 grams)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (90 grams)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (38 grams), adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 2 tablespoons crushed peppermint candies (candy canes or peppermint bark)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Pour 2 cups whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-low flame for about 3-4 minutes until warm but not boiling (around 140°F / 60°C).
- Whisk in 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar until fully dissolved and no lumps remain, about 2 minutes.
- Add 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips to the warm mixture. Stir constantly with a heat-resistant spatula until the chips melt and the mixture is glossy and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons crushed peppermint candies for texture and aroma.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and mini marshmallows if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use gentle medium-low heat to avoid scorching milk. Add peppermint extract off the heat to preserve flavor. Crushed peppermint candies add texture but can be omitted for a smoother drink. For dairy-free, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream. Adjust sugar to taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: peppermint hot cocoa, creamy hot chocolate, winter drink, holiday beverage, peppermint cocoa, cozy drink