Peppermint Hot Cocoa (Printable)

Creamy cocoa infused with peppermint, topped with fluffy marshmallows for cozy enjoyment.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 cups whole milk
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream

→ Chocolate & Sweeteners

03 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
05 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar

→ Flavorings

06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
08 - Pinch of salt

→ Toppings

09 - 1 cup mini marshmallows
10 - Crushed peppermint candies (optional)

# How To Make:

01 - Combine whole milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Heat until steaming, avoiding a boil.
02 - Whisk in cocoa powder, semisweet chocolate chips, granulated sugar, and salt until fully dissolved, producing a smooth and hot mixture, about 3 to 5 minutes.
03 - Remove from heat and stir in peppermint and vanilla extracts thoroughly.
04 - Pour the hot cocoa into serving mugs. Generously top with mini marshmallows and, if desired, sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
05 - Serve immediately to enjoy warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It takes less time than waiting in line at a coffee shop, and tastes twice as good.
  • The peppermint isn't overpowering, it just rounds out the chocolate in a way that feels both cozy and refreshing.
  • You can adjust the sweetness without feeling like you're following a strict formula.
  • It makes the whole house smell like a winter evening should.
02 -
  • If you add the peppermint extract while the cocoa is still on the heat, some of the flavor will evaporate and you'll lose that clean, bright finish.
  • Whisking constantly when you add the cocoa powder prevents it from clumping into little pockets that never dissolve.
  • If the milk gets too hot too fast, it can scald and taste slightly burnt, so keep the heat at medium and be patient.
03 -
  • Use a whisk instead of a spoon, it incorporates the cocoa powder faster and prevents lumps from forming along the sides of the pan.
  • Taste the cocoa before adding the peppermint extract, then add it slowly so you don't overpower the chocolate.
  • If you want the marshmallows to toast slightly, pour the cocoa into oven safe mugs, top with marshmallows, and run them under the broiler for 30 seconds.

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