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If you’re looking for a cozy, festive treat that perfectly blends creamy sweetness with a refreshing minty twist, the Peppermint White Hot Chocolate Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious drink transforms classic hot chocolate into a dazzling celebration of flavors, featuring velvety white chocolate melted into warm milk and cream, infused with peppermint and crowned with crunchy candy cane goodness. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with pure comfort, making chilly days instantly brighter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet vibrant, the ingredients for this peppermint white hot chocolate are easy to find but essential for creating its rich texture and enchanting flavor. Each component plays a starring role, from the creamy milk and heavy cream that provide lusciousness, to the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes that bring sweetness and holiday cheer.
- 6 cups whole milk: A creamy base that makes every sip smooth and satisfying.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Adds luscious richness and a velvety mouthfeel.
- 3 cups white chocolate chips (or chopped high-quality white chocolate): This is the sweet, creamy star that melts into magic.
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract: Brings a bright, refreshing mint flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warm depth and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for topping): Provides both subtle crunch and festive peppermint bursts.
- Pinch of sea salt: A tiny twist that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Whipped cream (optional topping): Fluffy, dreamy clouds that make every cup extra special.
- White chocolate shavings (optional topping): Adds a delicate, decorative finish.
How to Make Peppermint White Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Milk and Cream
Start by gently heating the whole milk and heavy cream together in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir consistently to avoid any skin forming or boiling, aiming for just a warm, inviting temperature that will melt the chocolate perfectly.
Step 2: Melt in the White Chocolate and Candy Canes
Next, add the white chocolate chips along with the crushed candy canes right into your warm milk and cream. Keep stirring gently until the chocolate melts fully and the candy canes dissolve enough to infuse the whole mixture with peppermint sparkle and subtle sweetness.
Step 3: Infuse with Peppermint, Vanilla, and Salt
Now for the flavor boost—stir in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. These simple additions elevate the drink, balancing the rich creaminess with fresh mint and a hint of complexity from vanilla, while the salt cuts through the sweetness just enough to keep your palate craving more.
Step 4: Serve the Hot Chocolate
Pour your blissful peppermint white hot chocolate into mugs, making sure to give it a good stir before serving. If you’re indulging solo or with a loved one, this is the perfect moment to add your favorite toppings and dive right in!
Step 5: Keep It Warm for Gatherings
If you’re hosting and want to keep the festivities flowing, transfer the hot chocolate to a slow cooker set on “warm.” This makes it easy for everyone to help themselves and ensures every cup stays perfectly cozy throughout the celebration.
How to Serve Peppermint White Hot Chocolate Recipe
Garnishes
The magic of this peppermint white hot chocolate doesn’t stop at flavor—the perfect garnishes turn it into a dazzling treat. Pile on whipped cream for a luscious top layer, sprinkle extra crushed candy canes for crunch and festive flair, and finish with delicate white chocolate shavings that melt slowly as you sip, adding richness and elegance.
Side Dishes
This warm drink pairs beautifully with classic holiday treats. Think buttery shortbread cookies, ginger snaps, or even a slice of peppermint bark. Each bite complements the creamy sweetness of the white hot chocolate, creating a festive feast that delights all your senses.
Creative Ways to Present
For a truly memorable experience, try serving your peppermint white hot chocolate recipe in clear glass mugs so the creamy white color shines through. Add candy cane stirrers or festive-themed reusable straws, and maybe tie a little ribbon around the handle for that extra touch of holiday charm. These little details make sipping this warm drink feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover peppermint white hot chocolate, storing it properly keeps the flavors fresh. Pour it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good stir, since the chocolate and cream can settle while chilled.
Freezing
While you can freeze the peppermint white hot chocolate, it’s best to do so without any whipped cream toppings. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers slowly on medium-low heat while stirring frequently to ensure the chocolate doesn’t separate or scorch. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can change the texture. Adding a splash of milk during reheating can help restore the creamy, smooth consistency you love.
FAQs
Can I use almond milk or other non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! While whole milk and heavy cream provide the traditional creamy texture, you can substitute with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind the texture might be a bit lighter, and you may want to add a little more white chocolate for richness.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of white chocolate chips slightly or choose brands with less added sugar. The pinch of sea salt also helps balance sweetness, so don’t skip that—it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
Can I prepare the peppermint white hot chocolate base ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the entire base (milk, cream, melted chocolate, and peppermint) up to two days ahead, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat when ready to serve. Just save the candy cane toppings and whipped cream for the fresh experience.
What’s the best type of white chocolate to use?
High-quality white chocolate with real cocoa butter will melt smoothly and provide a richer flavor. Avoid low-quality baking chips that contain vegetable oils as they tend to be grainy and less creamy.
Can I make this recipe spiked for adults?
Yes! For a grown-up twist, add a splash of peppermint schnapps, cream liqueur, or your favorite vanilla vodka after the hot chocolate is heated and stirred well. It’s a festive way to warm up holiday parties.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably magical about sipping a warm cup of peppermint white hot chocolate toward the end of a crisp day. This Peppermint White Hot Chocolate Recipe invites you to slow down, savor each creamy, minty sip, and share that feeling with friends and family. Whether it becomes a seasonal staple or a spontaneous treat, I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again – it’s truly comfort in a cup.
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Peppermint White Hot Chocolate Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 mugs
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is a creamy, festive treat perfect for cozy winter days. Made with rich white chocolate, creamy whole milk and heavy cream, and infused with refreshing peppermint and vanilla, it’s an indulgent twist on classic hot chocolate. Crushed candy canes add a delightful minty crunch, and optional whipped cream and white chocolate shavings make it extra special.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
Chocolate and Flavorings
- 3 cups white chocolate chips (or chopped high-quality white chocolate)
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Toppings
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional topping)
- White chocolate shavings (optional topping)
Instructions
- Heat the base: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Stir gently and warm the mixture carefully until it is hot but not boiling, ensuring the dairy doesn’t scorch.
- Add chocolate: Stir in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. Continue to stir the mixture steadily until the white chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Flavor it up: Add the pure peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir well to incorporate the flavors thoroughly and let it heat through for 2 to 3 more minutes to blend the tastes.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Optionally, top each mug with whipped cream, extra crushed candy canes, and white chocolate shavings for a festive finish.
- Keep warm: If serving for a group, transfer the hot chocolate to a slow cooker set on “warm” to keep it at a perfect serving temperature. This allows guests to serve themselves easily while enjoying the warm beverage throughout your gathering.
Notes
- Heat the milk and cream gently to avoid scorching and curdling.
- Use good quality white chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your preference as it can be strong.
- Crushed candy canes add crunch and extra minty flavor but can be omitted for a smoother drink.
- Keep the hot chocolate warm in a slow cooker if serving a group to maintain ideal drinking temperature.
- Whipped cream and white chocolate shavings toppings are optional but highly recommended for a special touch.
