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Peppermint Hot Chocolate

This festive hot chocolate combines rich, melted bittersweet chocolate with warm milk and a refreshing splash of peppermint extract, creating a cozy, sensory-rich drink. Topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies, it offers a smooth, glossy texture and a fragrant, cooling aroma perfect for winter evenings. The process emphasizes gentle heating and stirring to achieve a silky, inviting finish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups whole milk or almond/coconut milk for dairy-free
  • 4 oz bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chopped or chips
  • 2 drops peppermint extract start with less and add more to taste
  • 1 tbsp sugar can substitute with honey or maple syrup
  • whipped whipped cream for topping
  • crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Mugs
  • Strainer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Pour the milk into a small saucepan and warm it over low heat, watching for tiny bubbles to form around the edges, which takes about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips gradually into the warm milk, stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon until completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract, tasting and adjusting the amount until the refreshing mint flavor is balanced with the rich chocolate.
  4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs carefully, then top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  5. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the whipped cream for a festive crunch and vibrant color.
  6. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the fragrant aroma and smooth, glossy texture of your peppermint hot chocolate.