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Peppermint Hot Chocolate

This rich, comforting beverage combines smooth milk and deep cocoa with vibrant homemade peppermint syrup, creating a fragrant, velvety hot chocolate. The drink is topped with whipped cream and crushed candies for a festive, textured finish, perfect for cozy winter moments.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups milk whole milk preferred for creaminess
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder sifted for smoothness
  • 1/4 cup homemade peppermint syrup see recipe below
  • 1/2 cup whipped cream for topping
  • crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Fine sieve
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mug

Method
 

  1. Start by measuring out 2 cups of milk and 2 tablespoons of sifted unsweetened cocoa powder. Pour the milk into a small saucepan.
  2. Warm the milk over medium-low heat, whisking constantly to dissolve the cocoa powder smoothly. Keep an ear out for gentle bubbling—you're aiming for hot, but not boiling.
  3. Once the mixture is steaming and fragrant, add 1/4 cup of homemade peppermint syrup. Whisk again until the syrup is fully incorporated, creating a vibrant, swirling color.
  4. Let the hot chocolate simmer gently for about 2 minutes, watching as it thickens slightly and develops a rich aroma of cocoa and mint. Remove from heat once steaming hot.
  5. Strain the hot chocolate through a fine sieve into a warmed mug to remove any clumps or undissolved cocoa. This ensures a silky smooth texture.
  6. Spoon a generous swirl of whipped cream on top of the hot chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies for a festive crunch and extra mint aroma.
  7. Serve immediately, enjoy the fragrant steam, and take a sip to experience the luscious blend of chocolate and peppermint in every cozy, flavorful mouthful.

Notes

Make the peppermint syrup ahead of time for quick assembly. For an extra indulgence, add a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top of the whipped cream.