This cozy Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is like a warm hug in a cup! Made with creamy white chocolate and a splash of peppermint, it’s sure to make you smile.
Nothing beats sipping this treat on a chilly day. I love topping it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes—it’s like dessert and a drink all in one! ☕️❄️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess to your hot chocolate. You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk you prefer. Just keep in mind that some plant-based milks may slightly alter the flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the drink rich and velvety. If you want to cut calories, try half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
White Chocolate: The star of this drink! Use good-quality white chocolate for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try white chocolate chips that are dairy-free, but check the ingredients for sweetness levels.
Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way! If you want a stronger mint flavor, you can always add more, but do it in small increments to avoid overpowering the chocolate.
How Do I Make Sure My White Hot Chocolate is Smooth and Creamy?
To get that perfect creamy texture, here are a few key steps:
- Heat the milk and cream together slowly. Don’t let it boil, as this can cause a skin to form and might make the chocolate seize up.
- Add the white chocolate only after the milk and cream are warm. Stir continuously to ensure it melts evenly for a smooth finish.
- If you do notice any lumps after adding the white chocolate, you can blend the mixture briefly with a hand blender to solve this.
Making this peppermint white hot chocolate is straightforward. Just be patient while melting the white chocolate, and enjoy the process! The result will warm you up wonderfully.
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz white chocolate, chopped or white chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Peppermint White Hot Chocolate will take you about 10 minutes to make from start to finish. It’s a quick and simple recipe, perfect for warming up on cold days or treating yourself during the holidays!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk and Cream:
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Place it over medium heat and warm the mixture gently. Keep stirring occasionally until it’s warm but not boiling. You want to create a nice base for your hot chocolate!
2. Melt the White Chocolate:
Add the chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips to the warm milk mixture. Use a whisk to stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This should only take a couple of minutes, so keep an eye on it!
3. Add Peppermint Extract:
Once the white chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the peppermint extract gently, just to give it that delightful minty flavor without overpowering the chocolate.
4. Pour and Serve:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Don’t be shy—fill them up! The warm, creamy blend is waiting for you.
5. Top It Off:
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Top your peppermint white hot chocolate with a generous swirl of whipped cream for that extra indulgence.
6. Add Some Festive Flare:
Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top for a festive touch. They not only add flavor but also make your drink look so pretty!
7. Enjoy!
Your peppermint white hot chocolate is ready to be enjoyed! Sip and savor the creamy, minty goodness. Perfect for a cozy night in or to share with friends and family.
Can I Use Alternative Milks for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk of your choice. Just keep in mind that some plant-based milks might alter the flavor slightly.
What Should I Do if My White Chocolate Doesn’t Melt Smoothly?
If your white chocolate becomes lumpy, don’t worry! You can blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth. Just make sure your heat is low to avoid burning the chocolate.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the hot chocolate and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, to prevent separation.
How Can I Customize the Flavor?
You can customize the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a splash of espresso for a mocha twist! Just remember to adjust the peppermint extract to keep it balanced.