Christmas Peppermint Hot Chocolate
A rich, festive hot chocolate flavored with cocoa, vanilla, and refreshing peppermint. Warm milk creates a smooth, creamy texture, while marshmallows, whipped cream, and crushed peppermint candies provide classic holiday finishing touches.
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Ingredients
- 4 cups milk preferably whole milk for an especially creamy consistency
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Marshmallows for garnishing
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
- 1/3 cup freshly boiled water
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Place the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, boiling water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Set the pan over medium heat and stir continuously until the cocoa mixture reaches a boil.
- After boiling begins, maintain the heat and continue stirring constantly for 1 minute. This allows the sugar to dissolve completely while thoroughly blending the cocoa into the mixture.
- Pour the milk into the saucepan and stir to combine. Continue heating until the hot chocolate is thoroughly warmed and smooth, taking care not to allow it to boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until evenly incorporated.
- Serve the peppermint hot chocolate immediately. Finish each serving with whipped cream, marshmallows, and crushed peppermint candies as desired.
Notes
Whole milk may be used for a richer and creamier result. While warming the hot chocolate after adding the milk, avoid bringing the mixture to a boil.