Peppermint Hot Chocolate

This peppermint hot chocolate is rich, creamy, and made from scratch with real melted chocolate and just the right amount of peppermint. It takes only 15 minutes on the stovetop and tastes like a cozy winter night in a mug.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 4

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 530

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

2 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1/8 tsp salt
4 oz dark chocolate 60 to 70 percent cacao, finely chopped
2 oz high quality milk chocolate finely chopped
1/4 tsp peppermint extract add more to taste
1/4 tsp vanilla extract optional but recommended

Optional Toppings

whipped cream
crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
homemade marshmallows
chocolate shavings

Equipment

Medium saucepan: for gently heating the milk and melting the chocolate
Whisk to fully blend the chocolate into a smooth, glossy drink
Cutting board + chef’s knife: for finely chopping chocolate bars
Measuring spoons: for peppermint extract, sugar, and schnapps
liquid measuring cups to measure milk and cream
Heatproof mugs: keep the drink warm and hold up to toppings

Method

Combine the whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Warm over medium low heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming around the edges. Do not let it boil.
Reduce heat to low. Add the chopped dark and milk chocolate. Whisk slowly and continuously until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust peppermint or sweetness as needed.
Pour into heatproof mugs. Top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or homemade marshmallows.
Adult variation: Stir in 1-2 tsp peppermint schnapps right before serving.

Video

Notes

Chopped chocolate bars melt more smoothly than chocolate chips.
Peppermint extract varies in strength. Start with 1/4 tsp and increase very gradually.
Add a pinch of instant espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
To double or triple the recipe, use a larger saucepan and increase heating time slightly.
If the hot chocolate thickens as it sits, whisk in a splash of milk to loosen it.
Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings): 530 calories, 42 g fat, 33 g carbs, 8 g protein, 2 g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.