Imagine sipping a warm, creamy beverage that transports you to a winter wonderland with the first taste. Now imagine that same sensation, but with an adult twist.
This Peppermint Hot Cocoa combines hot creamy chocolate goodness, with a splash (or two) of mint liqueur for an adult drink that reminds you of your childhood.
Get ready to indulge in this chocolatey treat that will warm your heart and soul.
This recipe is easy to adjust to your tastes and dietary preferences. Use this recipe as a starting point.
I hereby grant you permission to add more or less sugar or liqueur.
You can use dairy free milk for the cocoa or swap in your favorite sugar free substitute.
Mint Liqueur and Alcohol Free Substitutes
We grew up with DeKuyper Creme de Menthe in my family. As a matter of fact we probably had the same bottle for 20 years since it only came out after Thanksgiving dinner to enjoy with the cheese and pies. It was one of several liqueur options, along with homemade Kahlua, Amaretto and Galliano.
But, you can use a variety of options in this recipe:
- Peppermint Schnapps
- Bailey's Vanilla Mint Shake
- Chocolate Mint Liqueur
Alcohol Free substitutes
- peppermint extract (add a teaspoon to the heated cocoa, add more if desired)
- fresh peppermint leaves (add a sprig or two while heating the milk and remove before serving)
- crushed candy canes or peppermint candy (add while heating the milk)
Ingredients
This is a basic hot cocoa recipe with just simple easy to find ingredients:
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- granulated sugar (or substitute
- milk (dairy or non dairy)
- peppermint flavored liqueur (or substitute above)
- candy canes (optional)
For the chocolate whipped cream, the ingredients are equally simple and easy to find:
- heavy whipping cream
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- powdered sugar (or sugar free substitute)
- vanilla extract
If you prefer plain whipped cream, omit the cocoa powder.
More Recipes from #OurFamilyTable
Chilly weather is upon us and nothing is more comforting than a steamy cup of Hot Cocoa. Here are some delicious varieties to try:
Cocoa Recipes or Holidays
- Cereal Milk Hot Chocolate from Palatable Pastime
- Champurrado from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
- Gingerbread House Hot Cocoa Bombs from Creative Cynchronicity
- Hershey's Hot Cocoa from Art of Natural Living
- Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix from Jen Around the World
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Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Hot Chocolate
- 4 cups milk
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup peppermint flavored liqueur (Peppermint Schnapps, Creme de Menthe, etc.)
- candy canes for serving
Instructions
Chocolate Whipped Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, fitted with whisk attachment if you have one, add all 4 ingredients. Start mixing on low speed until ingredients are combined. Slowly increase speed to medium high.
- Continue beating until mixture forms stiff peaks: when removing the beater the "mountain" in the bowl stands up straight without curling over.
Peppermint Hot Cocoa
- In a medium saucepan warm 1 cup of milk over medium-low heat. Add cocoa powder and sugar, whisking until dissolved.
- Turn heat up to medium, and add the remaining 3 cups of milk, stirring until it is hot enough to serve.
- Remove pan from heat and add peppermint liqueur.
- Serve in 4 mugs with chocolate whipped cream and whole or crushed candy canes for garnish.
Sound fabulous? Share it!
Until next time, happy eating!
~Audrey
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