This Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug in a mug! Creamy white chocolate blends perfectly with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making every sip a cozy treat.
It’s the perfect drink for chilly days, and I love to top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint. Who can resist that festive touch?🎄
Making it is a breeze! Just melt the chocolate, stir in milk, and add peppermint. In no time, you’re enjoying a delicious cup that brightens up any winter day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk creates a rich and creamy drink, but feel free to use any milk you like—almond, oat, or skim milk all work great. My personal favorite is oat milk for its creaminess!
White Chocolate: White chocolate chips are convenient, but you can chop a good quality white chocolate bar for a fancier taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, there are vegan white chocolate chips available!
Peppermint Extract: The peppermint extract adds that lovely minty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use crushed peppermint candies instead, but be careful to strain out pieces if you don’t want them in your drink.
Whipped Cream: Homemade whipped cream is fantastic, but store-bought is just fine if you’re short on time. For a fun twist, you can even add a mint flavoring to your cream!
How Can I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate is Smooth and Creamy?
The secret to a velvety peppermint white hot chocolate lies in the melting process. Here’s how to achieve the perfect texture:
- Always heat the milk slowly over medium heat to avoid scalding.
- Add white chocolate after the milk is hot, and stir continuously until well blended—this helps prevent clumps.
- For an extra silky finish, you can use an immersion blender after mixing to incorporate air, making it frothy!
Enjoy your cozy drink with these tips, and feel free to adjust the peppermint to your taste. Happy sipping!
How to Make Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed peppermint candy or candy canes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Peppermint White Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and serve. Perfect for a quick warm-up on a chilly day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Milk:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it is hot but not boiling. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from scorching on the bottom.
2. Melt the White Chocolate:
Reduce heat to low and add the white chocolate chips to the hot milk. Stir continuously until the white chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth. This is where the magic happens—watch it come together!
3. Add Peppermint Flavor:
Once the chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract. Give it a good mix to ensure the minty flavor is evenly distributed throughout.
4. Pour Into Mugs:
Carefully pour the peppermint white hot chocolate into mugs, filling them up to your desired level. Feel free to make cute mugs for a fun presentation!
5. Add the Toppings:
Top each mug generously with whipped cream. The more, the merrier!
6. Garnish with Peppermint:
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy cane pieces over the whipped cream for a festive and flavorful touch that adds a nice crunch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the peppermint white hot chocolate immediately and enjoy this creamy, minty delight. Perfect for snuggling up on a cold day!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Any non-dairy milk, like almond, soy, or oat milk, will work well in this recipe. Just choose unsweetened varieties to control the sweetness of your hot chocolate.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the hot chocolate in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days, and don’t forget to give it a good stir when you reheat!
What’s a Good Alternative to Crushed Peppermint Candy?
If you don’t have crushed peppermint candy on hand, you can use chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows for a different topping that still adds a delightful touch!
