Step 1: Heat the Milk and Cream
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine:
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Milk
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Heavy cream
Heat gently, stirring often. Do not boil—you want it hot but not scalded.
Step 2: Add Chocolate and Sugar
Once the milk is steaming:
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Add chocolate chips
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Add sugar
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Add salt
Whisk continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Flavor It
Remove from heat and stir in:
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Vanilla extract
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Peppermint extract
👉 Tip: Start with ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract, taste, then add more if needed. Too much peppermint can overpower the chocolate.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Pour into mugs and top with:
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Whipped cream
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Crushed peppermint candies
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A candy cane for stirring
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Variations
1. Extra Thick Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Whisk in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon milk before heating. This gives a European-style thickness.
2. Dairy-Free / Vegan Version
Substitute:
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Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk
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Dairy-free chocolate chips
Skip heavy cream or use full-fat coconut milk for richness.
3. Sugar-Free Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Use:
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Unsweetened chocolate
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Monk fruit sweetener or erythritol
Adjust sweetness gradually.
4. White Chocolate Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Replace semi-sweet chocolate with:
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White chocolate chips
Reduce sugar slightly—white chocolate is sweeter.
5. Adult Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Add 1–1½ oz of:
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Peppermint schnapps
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Baileys
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Crème de cacao
Perfect for holiday parties.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
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Low heat is key – high heat scorches milk
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Always whisk for smooth texture
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Use extracts, not oils for flavor control
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Taste before serving and adjust sweetness or mint
How to Serve Peppermint Hot Chocolate
This drink shines at:
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Christmas parties
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Winter brunch
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Movie nights
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After-dinner dessert drinks
Serve with:
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Sugar cookies
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Chocolate brownies
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Peppermint bark
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Gingerbread
For a festive touch, rim mugs with melted chocolate and crushed candy canes.
Storage & Reheating
To Store
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Refrigerate in an airtight container
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Keeps well for up to 3 days
To Reheat
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Warm gently on the stovetop
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Whisk before serving
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Avoid microwaving on high (can separate)
Nutritional Notes (Approximate)
Per serving:
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Calories: ~320
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Fat: High (from cream & chocolate)
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Sugar: Moderate
This is a treat, meant to be enjoyed mindfully—especially during the holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?
You can, but flavor will be lighter. For best results, use real chocolate.
Why does my hot chocolate taste bitter?
Chocolate may be too dark or overheated. Add a bit more sugar or cream.
Can kids drink peppermint hot chocolate?
Absolutely—just keep peppermint extract mild.
Final Thoughts: A Holiday Classic Worth Making
This Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe is everything a winter drink should be—warm, indulgent, festive, and deeply comforting. Made from scratch with real ingredients, it transforms a simple mug into a moment of pure holiday joy.
Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a rich chocolate flavor, smooth texture, and refreshing peppermint finish that rivals any coffee shop.
Make it once, and it will become a holiday tradition you’ll look forward to every year.
☕🎄 Happy sipping!
