Merry and Minty
LISA GRENTZ, MS, RDN, CD/LDN, FAND
Chocolate and peppermint are a classic winter pairing. These complimentary flavors are the signature seasonal flavor of many holiday dishes and drinks. Peppermint hot cocoa, with its mild peppermint flavor and silky-smooth chocolate make a perfect drink for winter parties or family gatherings.
This fun and festive peppermint hot cocoa recipe combines sweet and minty flavors, perfect for the cold weather season. Whether you’re enjoying a snow day outside or staying comfy and cozy indoors, a steaming mug of peppermint cocoa will warm you from the inside out. It is the perfect accompaniment when curled up watching a holiday movie, playing board games, or trimming the tree.
If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday treat, try this rich and creamy peppermint hot cocoa recipe.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Makes: 2 cups
1 ½ cups full-fat milk
2 Tbsp. sugar or pure maple syrup
2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1/8 tsp. peppermint extract
½ tsp. vanilla extract
Instructions
Heat a small saucepan over medium heat and add milk, sweetener, and cocoa powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth with small bubbles starting to form around the edge, about 5 minutes.
Remove pan from heat. Stir in the peppermint and vanilla extract. Divide cocoa evenly between 2 mugs. Serve with marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sprinkles, or your favorite topping.
Note
For parents that need a little pick-me-up, turn this into a peppermint mocha by adding 1 or 2 shots of espresso to your mug of cocoa.