Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Introduction
When winter chills arrive, nothing warms you up quite like a cup of hot chocolate. And if you’re looking to add a festive twist, try making Peppermint White Hot Chocolate! This creamy, sweet treat combines rich white chocolate with a hint of peppermint, creating a comforting drink perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s sure to become your new favorite winter beverage.
Why make this recipe
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is not just a drink; it’s an experience. The creamy texture and sweet flavor make it ideal for sharing with family and friends. It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t take much time, and you probably have most ingredients at home already. Plus, the aroma of melting chocolate and peppermint fills your kitchen, elevating the cozy vibe. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season, and you can customize it to suit your taste. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with toppings, this recipe has you covered.
How to prepare Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
To make this delicious drink, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (or crushed candy canes for the ‘naughty’ version)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
Steps:
Making Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is simple. Here’s how to do it:
- In a saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream over medium heat.
- Once heated, add the white chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the peppermint extract or crushed candy canes.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to serve Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Serving Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is all about presentation. Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. A generous swirl of whipped cream on top adds a creamy element that’s hard to resist. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch. You can also add a chocolate drizzle for a little flair. Serve it alongside a few cookies or a slice of cake for a complete treat. This drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night by the fireplace.
How to store 2 cups milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup white chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (or crushed candy canes for the ‘naughty’ version), Whipped cream (for topping), Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
If you have any leftover Peppermint White Hot Chocolate, store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to transfer it to an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk if it gets too thick. Remember, whipped cream won’t hold up well, so it’s best to only add toppings just before serving.
Tips to make Peppermint White Hot Chocolate perfectly
To make this treat as delicious as possible, here are some handy tips. Use good quality white chocolate chips for a rich flavor. They melt better and create a creamier drink. If you enjoy a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract or use more crushed candy canes. For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute dairy with almond milk or coconut cream. Experiment until you find the perfect balance that suits your taste.
Variations
Though classic Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is wonderful on its own, you can try some fun variations. For a mocha twist, add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder while melting the chocolate. You could also turn it into a frozen treat by blending the hot chocolate with ice for a peppermint chocolate chill. Don’t forget to explore flavor combinations! Maybe try adding a dash of vanilla along with the peppermint for a richer flavor profile.
FAQ
Q: Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of white chocolate chips?
A: Yes, though it will change the taste. Regular chocolate will create a milk chocolate version of this drink, which is equally delicious.
Q: What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
A: If you don’t have peppermint extract, crushed candy canes work great. You could also use peppermint syrup from coffee shops.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can make it ahead and reheat as needed. However, keep the whipped cream and garnishes separate until serving for the best presentation and taste.
With only a few ingredients and simple steps, Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is an easy drink to whip up. Whether for yourself or guests, it’s the perfect addition to your winter celebration. Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes with each delicious sip!
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup white chocolate chips Use good quality for best flavor
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract Or crushed candy canes for a different twist
Toppings
- Whipped cream For topping
- Crushed candy canes For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream over medium heat.
- Once heated, add the white chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the peppermint extract or crushed candy canes.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
