The festive season is upon us, and there’s no better way to warm the hearts of your loved ones than with a cup of Peppermint Hot Chocolate. Picture the joy of gathering around the fireplace, the scent of pine wafting from the wreath, and the twinkling fairy lights illuminating the room. This recipe embodies the spirit of Christmas—a delicious blend of rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and cozy family moments. It’s a delightful treat that brings everyone together, creating memories to cherish.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
- Candy canes for servings
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Lower the heat and add the chocolate chips and cocoa powder, stirring continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Ladle the hot chocolate into mugs, topping each with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the whipped cream and hang a candy cane on the side of each mug for a festive touch.
Helpful Tips
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk.
- Add a splash of coffee to create a peppermint mocha hot chocolate.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract to 1 teaspoon.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Pairings
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate pairs beautifully with classic gingerbread cookies, cinnamon rolls, or a slice of rich fruit cake. For a delightful beverage pairing, serve with a glass of eggnog or a mug of spiced apple cider.
We hope you enjoy this delightful Peppermint Hot Chocolate as much as we do! Share your festive creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We love seeing your culinary masterpieces!
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