This Candy Cane Hot Chocolate is a sweet winter treat that mixes creamy chocolate with yummy peppermint. It’s perfect for cozy nights by the fire!
As I sip this delightful drink, I can’t help but feel all warm and fuzzy. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes—so festive and fun! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can use any milk like almond, oat, or skim for a lighter option. I sometimes mix half and half for an ultra-rich flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess, but if you want a lighter drink, you can replace it with more milk, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Semi-sweet Chocolate: This is key for a deep chocolate flavor. If you don’t have it, dark chocolate or milk chocolate can work too, depending on your sweetness preference. Try chocolate syrup for a quicker choice!
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa for the best results. If you want something sweetened, opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a smoother taste.
Peppermint Extract: This gives the hot chocolate its festive kick. If you’re out, crushed peppermint candies can be used instead. Just remember to adjust the sweetness!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to a smooth and creamy hot chocolate is to heat your milk and cream gently. Too high heat can scorch the milk, making it taste off. Here are some steps to follow:
- Use a medium saucepan and keep the heat at medium. Stir often to prevent sticking.
- Wait until steam rises from the mixture but don’t let it boil. This keeps everything smooth.
- Add cocoa powder and sugar gradually to avoid clumping, whisking well until dissolved.
- When you add chocolate, keep stirring until it fully melts into the mix—patience is key!
Following these tips will ensure you end up with a luscious cup of hot chocolate every time!
Candy Cane Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
- Optional: pinch of salt
For Topping:
- Whipped cream
- 2 candy canes, crushed (plus 1 whole for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Candy Cane Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and makes enough to serve 2-3 cups. Perfect for a quick holiday treat or a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Base:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk and heavy cream. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it gets hot, but be careful not to let it boil!
2. Mix In the Cocoa:
Once the milk mixture is hot, add in the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt (if you’re using it). Whisk it all together until everything is dissolved and you have a smooth mixture—this is where the magic starts to happen!
3. Add Chocolate:
Next, toss in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate or chocolate chips. Stir continuously until they melt completely and the mixture is silky and creamy.
4. Flavor it Up:
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. This will give your hot chocolate that festive flavor!
5. Serve It Up:
Pour your delicious hot chocolate into mugs. Then, it’s time for the fun part—top each mug generously with whipped cream.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes and a bit of festive sugar over the whipped cream for a delightful crunch. Don’t forget to add a whole candy cane on the side for an extra pop of holiday cheer!
7. Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Candy Cane Hot Chocolate—perfect for sipping while wrapped up in a cozy blanket!
This recipe creates a rich, creamy hot chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist and delightful crunch from crushed candy canes, perfect for celebrating the festive season! ☕️✨
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Just note that flavors may vary slightly, so pick one you enjoy!
How Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet hot chocolate, reduce or eliminate the granulated sugar. The chocolate and cocoa already add a nice richness, so you might find it sweet enough without the additional sugar!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the hot chocolate base ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving, and don’t forget to add fresh whipped cream and crushed candy canes right before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove while stirring to keep the texture creamy. You can also add a splash of milk if it thickens up too much!