Imagine wrapping your cold hands around a mug of rich, velvety hot chocolate topped with the most heavenly peppermint whipped cream - a drink that's not just a beverage, but an experience that transforms ordinary winter moments into pure comfort and joy. This isn't just another hot chocolate recipe; it's a decadent escape from the chilly weather that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds with every single sip.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the 2 cups of milk, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Whisk together until the cocoa powder and sugar are fully dissolved.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously stir the mixture as it heats, ensuring it does not come to a boil. Heat until the hot chocolate is steaming and hot, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the hot chocolate is heated, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well to incorporate the vanilla flavor.
- While the hot chocolate is cooling slightly, prepare the peppermint whipped cream. In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and add the 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This should take about 2-4 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat, as you want the whipped cream to remain light and fluffy.
- Once the whipped cream is ready, set it aside. If desired, you can fold in a small amount of crushed peppermint candies into the whipped cream for added flavor and texture.
- To serve, pour the hot chocolate into four mugs, filling each mug about three-quarters full.
- Top each mug of hot chocolate with a generous dollop of peppermint whipped cream.
- Finally, garnish the whipped cream with additional crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
- Enjoy your delicious Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream while it’s warm!
Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor
- Stir continuously while heating to prevent milk from scorching
- Use cold heavy cream when making whipped cream for best volume
- Don't overheat the milk - aim for steaming, not boiling
- For extra indulgence, use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate taste
- Chill your mixing bowl and whisk before making whipped cream for fluffier results
- Crush peppermint candies just before serving to maintain their crisp texture
- Serve immediately for the best temperature and texture experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
