Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate (Printable)
A creamy hot chocolate with espresso and peppermint for warm, cozy moments.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dairy
01 - 2 cups whole milk
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
→ Chocolate & Coffee
03 - 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
04 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
05 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
06 - 1/4 cup freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
→ Flavorings
07 - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
08 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Toppings (optional)
09 - Whipped cream
10 - Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
11 - Chocolate shavings
# How to Make It:
01 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm until steaming but avoid boiling.
02 - Add semisweet chocolate chips, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar. Whisk continuously until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is uniform.
03 - Stir in freshly brewed espresso (or strong coffee), peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Continue heating for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring steadily until the beverage is hot.
04 - Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The peppermint cuts through the cocoa richness with an unexpected freshness that feels celebratory but never cloying.
- Espresso deepens the chocolate flavor without making it bitter, and you feel like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
- Ready in 15 minutes, which means you can have this on a weeknight without fuss or apology.
02 -
- Temperature matters more than you'd think—if the milk boils, the cream can separate and the whole thing tastes slightly curdled, so keep your eye on medium heat and don't get distracted.
- The peppermint extract is powerful, and more is not better; start with what's listed and taste before adding another drop, because you can always add but you can't take it back.
03 -
- Warm your mugs before pouring by rinsing them with hot water and letting them sit for a moment—cold ceramic will cool your drink faster than you'd like.
- If you're making this for a group, you can prepare the chocolate mixture ahead and gently reheat it when guests arrive, which feels impressive but honestly takes no extra effort.