If you’re dreaming of cozy winter evenings filled with warm, comforting sips, this Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe is just the treat you need. Imagine rich, velvety hot chocolate melted from a blend of cocoa, chopped dark chocolate, and a hint of vanilla, all crowned with fluffy whipped cream bursting with refreshing peppermint flavor. This festive combination not only warms you up but also delights your taste buds with every creamy spoonful. It’s an irresistible classic with a peppermint twist that’s perfect to share with loved ones or savor on your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this drink is simple, yet each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the smooth, creamy milk acting as a base to the sharp peppermint notes in the whipped cream, every item adds something special.
- Milk: The creamy foundation that softens the rich cocoa and dark chocolate into a luscious hot chocolate.
- Cocoa powder: Adds that deep, chocolatey essence with an intense flavor punch.
- Sugar: Balances out the bitterness of cocoa with a touch of sweetness for a comforting cup.
- Dark chocolate, chopped: Melts smoothly, providing a luxurious thickness and extra chocolate depth.
- Vanilla extract: Lends a subtle warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Heavy cream: For whipping into the lightest, fluffiest peppermint whipped cream topping.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream evenly without graininess, giving a silky finish.
- Peppermint extract: The star of the whipped cream, adding that unmistakable refreshing, minty zing that wakes up the senses.
How to Make Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Milk
Pour your milk into a saucepan and heat it gently over medium-low heat. The key here is patience—warm it slowly until just before it starts to simmer, so it’s perfectly warm without scorching or boiling.
Step 2: Add Cocoa, Sugar, and Chocolate
Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar to dissolve them fully, then stir in the chopped dark chocolate. Keep whisking until the mixture is silky smooth and all the chocolate has melted into a rich, inviting drink base.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla and Remove from Heat
Once your hot chocolate base is smooth and steaming, take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add that subtle sweet warmth that enhances every sip.
Step 4: Whip the Peppermint Whipped Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream alongside the powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form. This fluffy cloud of peppermint cream will be the perfect cool, minty foil to your warm chocolate.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Pour your hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with the peppermint whipped cream. Watching the cream slowly melt into the drink is half the delicious moment!
How to Serve Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your cup, sprinkle a few crushed candy canes or a light dusting of cocoa powder over the whipped cream. For an elegant touch, add a whole peppermint stick as a stirrer. These small details not only look festive but add texture and extra bursts of peppermint goodness.
Side Dishes
This hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with simple treats like buttery shortbread cookies, ginger snaps, or even a slice of moist chocolate cake. These sides help balance the drink’s richness while extending the cozy indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your hot chocolate in clear glass mugs to showcase the layers of swirling whipped cream and chocolate. Or, rim the glass with crushed peppermint candies before pouring in the hot chocolate for a festive and colorful twist. Personalize each mug with cinnamon sticks or chocolate shavings for that extra wow factor that makes sharing this recipe with friends even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover hot chocolate, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Whisk before reheating to bring back its creamy texture, but note that the peppermint whipped cream topping is best added fresh each time.
Freezing
While hot chocolate itself can be frozen, the peppermint whipped cream doesn’t freeze well and will separate when thawed. It’s best to freeze the hot chocolate base in portions and whip fresh peppermint cream when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat your hot chocolate gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling as it can alter the smoothness. Then top with freshly whipped peppermint cream to maintain that perfect balance of warm and cool flavors.
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy milk for this Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk make great substitutes and still create a deliciously smooth base. For the whipped cream, use a coconut-based whipping cream or chilled aquafaba to maintain fluffiness and peppermint flavor.
How strong should the peppermint extract be?
A little peppermint extract goes a long way. Start with a small amount, about half a teaspoon, and taste before adding more. You want a refreshing hint that complements but doesn’t overpower the chocolate.
Can I make the peppermint whipped cream ahead of time?
For the best texture and flavor, whip the peppermint cream just before serving. If you need to prep in advance, make the plain whipped cream and add peppermint extract right before topping the hot chocolate.
What type of chocolate works best here?
Use good-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. It melts smoothly and brings an intense chocolate richness that blends beautifully into the hot chocolate base.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it relies on dairy products and contains no meat or animal-derived gelatin.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sipping on a cup of hot chocolate adorned with peppermint whipped cream during chilly days. This Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe brings the perfect combination of creamy, minty, and chocolatey goodness to your mug, inviting warmth and festive cheer into your home. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting friends for a winter gathering, this recipe is an absolute joy to make and enjoy. Don’t wait for the snow to start falling—treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious delight as soon as possible!
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Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich and creamy hot chocolate is elevated with a fluffy peppermint whipped cream topping, making it a perfect festive winter treat. Smooth dark chocolate and cocoa blend seamlessly into warm milk, complemented by a hint of vanilla, while the whipped cream adds a cool, minty contrast.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Peppermint Whipped Cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium-low heat until warm but not boiling, to avoid scalding.
- Mix Cocoa and Sugar: Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar into the warm milk until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add Chocolate: Stir in the chopped dark chocolate, continuing to whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is silky.
- Flavor with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare Peppermint Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form, taking care not to overwhip.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top generously with the peppermint whipped cream. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract in the whipped cream based on your taste preference—start with less and add more if desired.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the milk is heated gently to prevent it from burning or curdling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
