Peppermint Hot Chocolate
When winter wraps Manhattan in its chilly embrace, we cozy up with mugs of Peppermint Hot Chocolate. It’s a family favorite that mixes the rich comfort of chocolate with a refreshing minty twist, just the thing for cold evenings after Alex’s soccer practice. The kids love it for the festive feel, and I adore how simple it is to whip up with just one pot to clean. This is what real family warmth is all about, isn’t it? If you love a quick homemade treat like we do, you’ll want to try our Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies, too.
Jump to:
Why you’ll love this recipe
Our Peppermint Hot Chocolate isn't just about great flavor; it’s made quickly in just 6 minutes! No fancy equipment and barely any prep means more time to enjoy with family. It’s perfect for those spontaneous moments we crave a little extra warmth and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 candy canes (45 g, about ½ cup)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy cane pieces
Step-by-step instructions
- Add milk, sugar, and cocoa powder to a Vitamix blender.
- Start the blender on low speed, then increase to high, blending for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and warm.
- Add chocolate, vanilla, and candy cane pieces. Blend for another 3 minutes until it’s smooth and hot.
- Pour the silky mix into mugs, top with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of candy cane toppings.
Recipe tips & variations
For a creamier texture, try subbing half the milk with cream. If your family prefers a more subtle mint kick, start with fewer candy canes and adjust to taste. I found that using dark chocolate instead of semisweet adds a lovely depth, too.
Storage & reheating
Keeping leftovers is easy! Just store any extra hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready for more, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It keeps well for about 3 days — if it lasts that long with my crew around!
FAQs
Can I make Peppermint Hot Chocolate without a blender?
You can! Just heat everything in a saucepan and whisk continuously until smooth.
How can I adjust the mint flavor in Peppermint Hot Chocolate?
Start with less candy cane and add more to taste. It’s easy to tweak until it’s just right for your crew.
What types of chocolate work best for Candy Cane Hot Chocolate?
Quality matters! Go for good semisweet or dark chocolate. It's a game-changer.
How should I store leftover Peppermint Hot Chocolate and how long does it last?
Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should stay yummy for up to 3 days.
Recipes you may like
- Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies
- Creamy Mango Banana Smoothie for a Fresh Morning Boost
- Pineapple Green Smoothie
Crafting moments around the kitchen table with simple recipes? That’s what cooking for family means to us. Enjoy your cozy kitchen moments, friends!
Print
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 6 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and festive Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe perfect for cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 candy canes (45 g, about ½ cup)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy cane pieces
Instructions
- Add milk, sugar, and cocoa powder to a Vitamix blender.
- Start the blender on low speed, then increase to high, blending for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and warm.
- Add chocolate, vanilla, and candy cane pieces. Blend for another 3 minutes until it’s smooth and hot.
- Pour the silky mix into mugs, top with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of candy cane toppings.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, try subbing half the milk with cream.
- If your family prefers a more subtle mint kick, start with fewer candy canes and adjust to taste.
- Using dark chocolate instead of semisweet adds a lovely depth.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
