This indulgent, festive, minty hot chocolate recipe is perfect for sipping on a cold day or during the holiday season. Don't miss the recipe notes for options and variations.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time5 minutesmins
Total Time10 minutesmins
Course: Dessert, Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: homemade hot chocolate, hot chocolate recipes, peppermint hot chocolate
1 to 2tablespoonsgranulated sugar(depending on how sweet you like it)
pinchkosher salt
3ouncesfinely chopped semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips(about 1/2 cup)
1/4teaspoonvanilla extract
1/8teaspoonpeppermint extract
whipped cream, marshmallows, and crushed candy canes , for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a pot, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla and peppermint extracts, and salt. Heat on the stove on medium-low until bubbles start to form around the side of the pan.
Reduce heat to low, add chocolate and extracts, and whisk until melted, glossy, and thickened slightly, 1-2 minutes.
Pour into a mug and top with lightly-sweetened whipped cream or marshmallows and a sprinkling of crushed candy canes.
Video
Notes
Lighter options:
This hot chocolate is a very rich treat, much like a European drinking chocolate. A small serving is usually perfect for me. If you prefer your hot chocolate a little lighter, decrease chocolate to 2 ounces (about 1/3 cup). You can also omit the heavy cream and use 1-1/4 cups milk.
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate:
Omit the sugar and substitute 2 ounces (1/3 cup) finely chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips for the semisweet chocolate.
Spike it for the adults:
Omit the peppermint extract and substitute 2-3 tablespoons peppermint schnapps.