Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe: A Festive Winter Delight

When winter's chill settles in and holiday decorations emerge, there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of peppermint hot chocolate. This beloved winter beverage combines rich chocolate with refreshing mint for a drink that captures the essence of the season. Our peppermint hot chocolate recipe strikes the perfect balance—decadent enough to feel like a treat, yet simple enough to make whenever the craving strikes. Whether you're warming up after sledding, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this festive drink is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

A perfect mug of peppermint hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for the Perfect Peppermint Hot Chocolate

The secret to exceptional peppermint hot chocolate lies in quality ingredients. This recipe creates a rich, creamy drink that balances chocolate depth with refreshing mint. Here's everything you'll need:

Basic Ingredients

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or milk of choice)
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 4 oz (113g) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

• Whipped cream
• Crushed candy canes
• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate shavings
• Whole candy canes (for stirring)
• Chocolate syrup drizzle

All the ingredients you need for perfect peppermint hot chocolate

Ingredient Tips: For the richest flavor, use high-quality chocolate with 60-70% cocoa content. Dutch-processed cocoa powder creates a smoother texture, but regular unsweetened cocoa works well too. Pure peppermint extract provides the best flavor—imitation extracts can taste artificial.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Creating the perfect peppermint hot chocolate is simple when you follow these steps. The key is gentle heating and careful attention to prevent scorching the milk or chocolate.

Begin by combining milk and cream in a medium saucepan

1. Combine liquids: In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil).
2. Add dry ingredients: Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until no lumps remain.
3. Melt chocolate: Reduce heat to low. Add chopped chocolate and whisk continuously until completely melted and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add extracts: Remove from heat and stir in peppermint and vanilla extracts. Start with ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract and taste—add more if you prefer a stronger mint flavor.
5. Serve: Pour into mugs and add your favorite toppings.

Whisk continuously while adding chocolate to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture

Be very careful with peppermint extract—it's potent! Start with less than you think you need and add more to taste. Too much can make your hot chocolate taste like toothpaste.

Customization Tips and Variations

One of the joys of homemade peppermint hot chocolate is how easily you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some ways to make this recipe your own:

Adjusting Mint Intensity

• Subtle mint: Use just ⅛ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Medium mint: The standard ¼ teaspoon in the recipe
• Bold mint: Increase to ½ teaspoon (taste as you go!)
• Natural mint: Steep 2-3 fresh mint leaves in the hot milk for 5 minutes before adding chocolate (remove leaves before serving)

Sweetness Levels

• Less sweet: Reduce sugar to 1 tablespoon and use darker chocolate (70-85% cocoa)
• Standard sweet: Follow the recipe as written
• Extra sweet: Increase sugar to 3 tablespoons or use milk chocolate instead of semisweet
• Natural sweetener: Replace sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup

Experiment with different toppings to create your perfect peppermint hot chocolate

Adult Version

For a grown-up twist, add a splash of peppermint schnapps, crème de menthe, or Bailey's Irish Cream. Start with 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) per serving and adjust to taste. Add the alcohol after removing the hot chocolate from heat to preserve the flavor and potency.

The adult version with peppermint schnapps makes a delightful after-dinner treat

Dietary Alternatives

Everyone deserves to enjoy a delicious cup of peppermint hot chocolate, regardless of dietary restrictions. Here are some easy substitutions to accommodate different needs:

Dairy-Free/Vegan Version

• Replace whole milk with oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream
• Use dairy-free dark chocolate (check labels to ensure no milk products)
• Top with coconut whipped cream instead of dairy whipped cream

Lighter Version

• Use 2% or skim milk instead of whole milk
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or more milk
• Reduce chocolate to 3 ounces
• Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit (adjust to taste)

Dairy-free peppermint hot chocolate can be just as rich and satisfying as the traditional version

"The coconut milk version adds a subtle tropical note that pairs surprisingly well with the peppermint. It's become my family's favorite variation!"

— Sarah, home baker

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Elevate your peppermint hot chocolate experience with these serving ideas that add festive flair and extra deliciousness to every cup.

Create a hot chocolate bar for guests to customize their own peppermint hot chocolate

Festive Presentation Ideas

• Rim the mug: Dip the rim in melted chocolate, then in crushed candy canes or colored sugar
• Create a hot chocolate bar: Set out toppings in small bowls so everyone can customize their drink
• Use festive mugs: Holiday-themed mugs instantly make the experience more special
• Add a candy cane stirrer: Hook a candy cane on the side of each mug for stirring and added mint flavor
• Make chocolate spoons: Dip plastic spoons in melted chocolate, sprinkle with crushed peppermint, and let set. Use these for stirring

Perfect Pairings

Peppermint hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with these treats:

• Chocolate chip cookies
• Shortbread cookies
• Chocolate-dipped biscotti
• Brownies
• Chocolate-covered pretzels

Pair your peppermint hot chocolate with freshly baked cookies for the ultimate comfort treat

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Peppermint hot chocolate is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store cooled leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling, which can cause separation.
• Microwave option: Reheat in a microwave-safe mug at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.

Make-Ahead Options

• Hot chocolate base: Prepare the recipe through step 3 (before adding extracts). Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add extracts.
• Dry mix gift jars: Layer cocoa powder, sugar, chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes in a mason jar. Attach instructions to add milk, cream, and extracts.

Layered peppermint hot chocolate mix in mason jars makes a thoughtful homemade gift

Pro Tip: When making hot chocolate mix as gifts, include a small bottle of peppermint extract separately, as the peppermint flavor from crushed candy canes can fade over time in the dry mix.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe

A rich, creamy hot chocolate infused with refreshing peppermint—perfect for cold winter days and holiday celebrations.

4.8

User Rating

Flavor

4.8

Ease

4.7

Presentation

4.9

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe - perfect for holiday entertaining

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 4 oz (113g) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream, for topping
• Crushed candy canes, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat until small bubbles form around the edges (do not boil).
2. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until no lumps remain.
3. Reduce heat to low. Add chopped chocolate and whisk continuously until completely melted and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint and vanilla extracts.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	385	-
Fat	25g	32%
Carbohydrates	38g	14%
Protein	8g	16%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Enjoy Your Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate

There's something magical about sipping homemade peppermint hot chocolate during the winter months. The combination of rich chocolate and cool mint creates a sensory experience that embodies the holiday spirit. Whether you're enjoying it alone with a good book, sharing it with family after a day of winter activities, or serving it at a festive gathering, this peppermint hot chocolate recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

Remember that the beauty of homemade hot chocolate is in the customization—adjust the chocolate intensity, peppermint flavor, and toppings to create your perfect cup. We'd love to hear how you enjoy your peppermint hot chocolate and any special touches you add to make it your own!

Creating memories with loved ones over a delicious cup of peppermint hot chocolate

Share Your Creations!

Made this recipe? Tag us on social media with #PeppermintHotChocolate or leave a comment below!

Save Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe with white chocolate instead?

Yes! For a white peppermint hot chocolate, substitute the semisweet chocolate with 4 oz of high-quality white chocolate. Reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon since white chocolate is sweeter. The result is a beautiful creamy drink with a more subtle chocolate flavor that really lets the peppermint shine.

How can I make this in a slow cooker for a party?

For a party-sized batch, multiply the recipe by 4-6 depending on your slow cooker size. Combine all ingredients except the peppermint and vanilla extracts in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until chocolate is melted and mixture is hot. Stir in extracts just before serving. Keep on the "warm" setting during your gathering.

Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint extract?

Yes, you can substitute the peppermint extract with crushed candy canes. Add about 2-3 tablespoons of finely crushed candy canes to the hot milk mixture and stir until dissolved. Keep in mind that this will increase the sweetness, so you may want to reduce the sugar slightly.