Creamy White Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa Recipe

This White Chocolate and Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a rich, festive treat perfect for the winter months.

A warm mug of this elevated hot chocolate is a lovely way to warm up on a cold day. Traditional hot cocoa is everywhere, but using white chocolate gives the drink a creamy, elegant flavor and a pretty pale color that’s especially seasonal and delightful.

Ingredients needed:

• Whipping cream (chilled)
• Peppermint candies or candy canes (crushed)
• Milk (about 3½ cups)
• Good-quality white chocolate (about 8 ounces, chopped)
• Peppermint extract (½ teaspoon)

How to make White Chocolate and Peppermint Hot Chocolate:

Make the peppermint whipped cream:

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the chilled whipping cream with crushed peppermint candies until stiff peaks form. Cover and refrigerate the whipped cream until you’re ready to serve.

Make the white hot chocolate:

In a heavy, large saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add the chopped white chocolate and whisk until it melts and the mixture is smooth. Keep the mixture at a gentle simmer while stirring, then whisk in the peppermint extract. Taste and adjust the peppermint if you prefer a stronger mint flavor.

Divide the hot white chocolate among four mugs. Spoon a generous dollop of peppermint whipped cream on each mug and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candies. For a festive touch, add a whole or mini candy cane as a garnish — it doubles as a stirrer and a sweet bite when you’re finished.

Serving suggestions and extras:

• Serve in clear glass mugs to show off the pale, creamy color.
• Top with extra crushed peppermint or a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings for more texture.
• Use leftover crushed candy canes for other holiday treats like cookies, fudge, or cocktails.

Ingredients (serves 4)

• ⅔ cup chilled whipping cream or heavy whipping cream
• 8 red-and-white striped peppermint candies or candy canes, crushed (for whipped cream and garnish)
• 3½ cups milk (any fat level)
• 8 ounces good-quality white chocolate, chopped
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract

Instructions

1. Make the peppermint whipped cream: In a medium bowl, beat the chilled whipping cream with the crushed peppermint candies until stiff peaks form. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Make the hot chocolate: In a heavy, large saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add the chopped white chocolate and whisk until completely melted and smooth. Keep the mixture at a gentle simmer while whisking. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
3. Serve: Divide the hot chocolate among four mugs. Top each with a spoonful of peppermint whipped cream and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint. Garnish with a candy cane if desired and serve immediately.

Enjoy this cozy, creamy hot chocolate as a holiday treat or any time you want a special warm drink.