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Creamy Peppermint Hot Chocolate

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A rich and velvety hot chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint, topped with melting mini marshmallows for a cozy holiday treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml) – optional but recommended
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25 g)
  • 1/3 cup granulated white sugar (65 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows (50 g)
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (30 g)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon crushed candy canes

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt to combine and avoid clumps (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add whole milk and heavy cream to the saucepan and whisk gently to combine with the dry ingredients, starting on low heat (1-2 minutes).
  3. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, whisking frequently. Do not let it boil; heat until steam and small bubbles form at the edges (5-7 minutes). Watch carefully to prevent scorching.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust peppermint flavor carefully.
  5. If desired, stir in dark chocolate chips off the heat until melted for extra richness.
  6. Pour hot chocolate into mugs and top with mini marshmallows. Optionally, sprinkle crushed candy canes or a dash of cocoa powder over the marshmallows.
  7. Stir gently after adding marshmallows to encourage melting without losing their shape entirely.

Notes

Use mini marshmallows for best melting and texture. Avoid peppermint oil as it can be overpowering. Stir frequently to prevent scorching. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free marshmallows. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint hot chocolate, creamy hot chocolate, holiday drink, marshmallow topping, festive beverage, winter drink

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/creamy-peppermint-hot-chocolate-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-perfect-marshmallow-topping/