This homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe is the perfect drink for the cooler weather, especially during the holidays! A rich, creamy hot chocolate with mint flavoring, so delicious.

Peppermint hot chocolate in a glass cup topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint with a candy cane in the cup.

Serve this homemade peppermint hot cocoa charcuterie board style with our classic hot chocolate, and let your guests add their toppings! 

Peppermint Hot Chocolate –

There is nothing better than enjoying a hot cup of peppermint hot chocolate during the colder days! This creamy and rich homemade hot cocoa recipe, with the added peppermint extract, has so much flavor. This hot drink recipe is going to become a family favorite, especially around Christmas time.

A glass cup of peppermint hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, crushed peppermint, and chocolate drizzle.

Ingredients –

This recipe is based on our classic hot chocolate recipe! You can enjoy this delicious peppermint hot cocoa with just a few ingredients.

  • Sweetener – For the sweetener, you can use granulated sugar, maple syrup, or any other sweeteners you have on hand. 
  • Cocoa Powder – You want to ensure you use unsweetened cocoa powder. We like to use the Hershey’s, but you can use any of your favorite brands.
  • Milk – You want to use whole milk or any of your go-to plant-based milk for this recipe. If you want a thicker consistency of hot cocoa, you can add half and half with the milk.
  • Chocolate – Use semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips, chunks, or chocolate savings for this hot chocolate.
  • Vanilla – Vanilla extract for extra flavor but may be left out!
  • Peppermint – You can use peppermint sticks, crushed peppermint or peppermint extract for the peppermint flavor.
Two cups of peppermint hot cocoa topped with whipped cream, crushed peppermint flakes, and chocolate drizzle.

HOW TO MAKE PEPPERMINT HOT CHOCOLATE-

This creamy and rich homemade hot cocoa recipe comes together in under 15 minutes!

  1. Whisk together granulated sugar, cocoa powder, milk, chocolate chunks, vanilla, and peppermint flavoring in a medium saucepan.
  2. Place over medium heat and allow it to simmer, continuously whisking to avoid burning slightly.
  3. Continue cooking on medium low heat, whisking until all the chocolate has melted.
  4. Cool the hot cocoa mix to desired serving temperature, add into mugs and enjoy with your favorite toppings!

TOPPING IDEAS-

Peppermint hot chocolate in two cups topped with marshmallows and crushed peppermint.

The best way to enjoy this homemade creamy peppermint hot cocoa is by adding your favorite added toppings!

Favorite Hot Chocolate Toppings:

  • Crushed Candy Canes
  • Whipped Cream
  • Chocolate Syrup
  • White Chocolate Syrup
  • Mini Marshmallows
  • Peppermint Marshmallows
  • Crushed Peppermint
  • Milk Chocolate Chips
  • Candy Canes
An up close picture of hot cocoa with whipped cream and crushed peppermint.

Frequently Asked Questions –

Can I substitute the peppermint extract?

Yes, if you do not have peppermint extract on hand, you can use peppermint candy, candy canes, or crushed peppermint.

Can I make this into a peppermint mocha?

Yes! This recipe will make a great peppermint mocha, just replace ½ cup of milk with ½ cup of strong coffee.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this is great to make ahead of time! Just reheat when ready to serve and enjoy!

How to store hot chocolate?

You can store any leftover hot cocoa in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Can I make this iced hot chocolate?

This is GREAT when served over ice. Allow hot cocoa to cool, then pour over ice and serve!

How do I reheat this hot cocoa?

Reheat the hot cocoa in the microwave or over the stovetop until heated.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, add all the hot cocoa mix into the slow cooker and whisk vigorously until all the powder is mixed in. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Hot chocolate in glass mugs topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint next to a bowl of marshmallows.

Other Drink Recipes –

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Author: Valentina
Print
4.67 from 3 votes
This homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe is the perfect drink for the cooler weather, especially during the Holidays! A rich,creamy hot chocolate with mint flavoring, so delicious.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar or add to desired sweetness
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 cups whole milk*
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, chunks or shavings
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp peppermint flavoring, to taste**

Instructions

  • Add the sugar, cocoa powder, milk, chocolate, vanilla, and peppermint flavoring into a medium saucepan. Whisk the mixture until well combined.
  • Add the saucepan onto the stovetop and place over medium heat and bring to a light boil while constantly mixing. Continue mixing and cooking until all the chocolate has melted.
  • Cook until the hot chocolate mixture is well incorporated and the chocolate has melted. TIP: Be sure not to bring the mixture to a boil or you will scorch the milk.
  • Set aside to cool to your desired temperature and serve with your favorite toppings.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

*For a richer and creamier hot chocolate, replace 1 cup of milk with 1 cup of heavy cream or half and half.
**For the peppermint flavoring you can adjust the amount of flavoring according to desired peppermint taste.  You can also use peppermint syrup or candy canes. 

Nutrition

338kcal Calories39g Carbs10g Protein17g Fat10g Saturated Fat1g Polyunsaturated Fat5g Monounsaturated Fat1g Trans Fat26mg Cholesterol108mg Sodium529mg Potassium4g Fiber33g Sugar406IU Vitamin A296mg Calcium2mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Amount Per Serving
Calories 338 Calories from Fat 153
% Daily Value*
Fat 17g26%
Saturated Fat 10g63%
Trans Fat 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 5g
Cholesterol 26mg9%
Sodium 108mg5%
Potassium 529mg15%
Carbohydrates 39g13%
Fiber 4g17%
Sugar 33g37%
Protein 10g20%
Vitamin A 406IU8%
Calcium 296mg30%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
(The nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.)