Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk?

Absolutely! Oat milk works wonderfully as it has a natural creaminess. You can also use coconut milk for a tropical twist. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, and you might want to adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Why is my hot chocolate grainy?

This usually happens when chocolate seizes during melting or if it's not fully incorporated into the liquid. Make sure to melt your chocolate slowly and whisk vigorously when combining with the milk mixture. If it's still grainy, try blending the mixture with an immersion blender for a few seconds.

Can I make this in a slow cooker for a party?

Definitely! Double or triple the recipe and warm it in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally and keep it on the "warm" setting during your gathering. Guests can help themselves and add their own toppings.

Is there a way to make this less rich?

If you find the drink too rich, you can adjust the ratio to use more milk and less cream. You could also substitute semi-sweet chocolate for part of the bittersweet chocolate, though I personally find all semi-sweet makes it quite sweet.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe

Name: Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup peppermint schnapps or substitute with more milk for a non-alcoholic version; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1–2 teaspoons peppermint extract (see notes); 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped; Whipped cream; Chocolate curls

This decadent Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the ultimate winter warmer that transforms ordinary hot chocolate into something truly special. Rich, creamy, and infused with refreshing peppermint, this drink strikes the perfect balance between indulgent chocolate and cool mint flavors. Ready in just 12 minutes, it’s a quick yet impressive treat that’ll become your go-to comfort drink during the cold season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Luxury: This isn’t just hot chocolate—it’s a café-quality experience you can make at home in minutes. Perfect for those evenings when you deserve something special without the fuss.
Customizable: Easily make it alcoholic or family-friendly—it’s delicious either way! The peppermint schnapps adds a grown-up twist, but the non-alcoholic version is equally divine.
Pure Comfort: There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and cooling peppermint that soothes the soul. It’s like a warm hug in a mug!
Impressive Yet Simple: Topped with whipped cream and chocolate curls, it looks like it took hours to make, but it’s our little secret that it only takes minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whole Milk: Provides the perfect creamy base. The fat content creates a silky texture that’s essential for a proper hot chocolate.
Heavy Cream: This is what takes this hot chocolate from good to magnificent. It adds luxurious richness that you simply can’t get with milk alone.
Peppermint Schnapps: Adds both a festive kick and enhances the peppermint flavor. The alcohol brings warmth beyond just temperature.
Powdered Sugar: Dissolves beautifully into the liquid for smooth sweetness without any graininess.
Peppermint Extract: The secret ingredient that delivers that refreshing mint flavor that makes this hot chocolate so special.
Bittersweet Chocolate: The star of the show! Using real chopped chocolate (not cocoa powder) creates a depth of flavor and silky texture that’s unmatched.
Whipped Cream: The perfect creamy topping that slowly melts into your drink, adding another layer of indulgence.
Chocolate Curls: Not just pretty—they add textural interest and an extra hit of chocolate with each sip.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Non-Alcoholic Version

Replace the peppermint schnapps with additional milk and increase the peppermint extract to 2 teaspoons for that perfect mint flavor without the alcohol.

Mexican-Inspired

Add a pinch of cinnamon and a tiny dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy-sweet variation that warms you from the inside out.

Mocha Peppermint

Add 1 tablespoon of espresso or strong coffee to create a peppermint mocha experience at home.

White Chocolate Version

Substitute white chocolate for the bittersweet chocolate and add a drop of green food coloring for a festive holiday drink that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Combine milk, heavy cream, peppermint schnapps (or additional milk for non-alcoholic version), and powdered sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a light simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

While your milk mixture is warming, finely chop the bittersweet chocolate and melt it in the microwave. Work in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one to ensure smooth melting. Stop as soon as it’s fully melted to avoid burning.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Remove the saucepan from heat once it reaches a simmer. Whisk in the melted chocolate until completely incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and silky with no chocolate streaks. Add the peppermint extract and whisk once more to combine.

Step 4: Serve with Style

Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, top generously with whipped cream, and sprinkle with chocolate curls. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the perfect balance of rich chocolate and cool peppermint!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Temperature Control: Heat your milk mixture slowly to avoid scorching. A gentle simmer is all you need—boiling will change the texture.
Chocolate Quality Matters: Use the best quality chocolate you can afford. Since it’s the star ingredient, a better chocolate will give you a noticeably better hot chocolate.
Proper Chopping: Chop your chocolate finely before melting. Smaller pieces melt more evenly and incorporate into the milk mixture without leaving lumps.
Extract Timing: Add the peppermint extract at the end of cooking. Heat can diminish the flavor of extracts, so adding it last preserves that fresh mint taste.
Warm Your Mugs: For an extra special touch, warm your mugs with hot water before filling them with hot chocolate. This keeps your drink warmer longer.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This rich hot chocolate pairs beautifully with simple cookies like shortbread or butter cookies. The simplicity of the cookies complements rather than competes with the complex flavors in your drink.

Holiday Gatherings

Set up a hot chocolate bar with the base hot chocolate and various toppings like crushed candy canes, different flavored whipped creams, or chocolate shavings.

Cozy Night In

Serve alongside a good book or movie for the ultimate self-care evening. Add a soft blanket and you’ve got perfect hygge vibes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing the Base

You can prepare the milk and cream mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat gently and add the melted chocolate when you’re ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The chocolate may separate, but don’t worry—it will reincorporate when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking frequently to recombine any separated chocolate. Avoid the microwave, which can cause the chocolate to seize.

FAQs

Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk?

Absolutely! Oat milk works wonderfully as it has a natural creaminess. You can also use coconut milk for a tropical twist. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, and you might want to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Why is my hot chocolate grainy?

This usually happens when chocolate seizes during melting or if it’s not fully incorporated into the liquid. Make sure to melt your chocolate slowly and whisk vigorously when combining with the milk mixture. If it’s still grainy, try blending the mixture with an immersion blender for a few seconds.
Can I make this in a slow cooker for a party?

Definitely! Double or triple the recipe and warm it in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally and keep it on the “warm” setting during your gathering. Guests can help themselves and add their own toppings.
Is there a way to make this less rich?

If you find the drink too rich, you can adjust the ratio to use more milk and less cream. You could also substitute semi-sweet chocolate for part of the bittersweet chocolate, though I personally find all semi-sweet makes it quite sweet.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Hot Chocolate isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience that transforms ordinary moments into special ones. Whether you’re curled up by the fire, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this luxurious concoction delivers comfort and joy in every sip. The beauty is in its simplicity and flexibility—make it your own and enjoy the perfect balance of rich chocolate and cool peppermint whenever the mood strikes!