This Candy Cane Hot Chocolate is a festive treat that will warm your heart! It’s rich, creamy, and topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for that extra holiday cheer.
Making this hot cocoa is super simple. Just mix, stir, and sip! I like to enjoy it while watching holiday movies, because let’s be real, it’s the best way to cozy up on a cold night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk makes this hot chocolate creamy and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk or even almond milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the creaminess will differ.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that deep chocolate flavor. If you don’t have it, you can try using a chocolate syrup, although it will add extra sweetness.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These add a luxurious touch to your hot chocolate. Dark chocolate is a great alternative if you want a richer taste, or you could opt for white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Peppermint Extract: This gives that signature candy cane flavor. If peppermint extract isn’t handy, you could crush a mint candy or use mint chocolate chips instead, but the flavor might differ slightly.
Whipped Cream: Homemade whipped cream is the best! If you want to skip it, try using canned whipped cream or even a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist.
How Can You Ensure Your Hot Chocolate is Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a luxuriously smooth hot chocolate is stirring! Start heating your milk gently to prevent scorching. As you whisk in cocoa powder and sugar, it should dissolve completely. Then, add the chocolate chips while continually stirring until everything melts together. This prevents lumps and gives you that dreamy texture!
- Heat the milk on medium, stirring often. Don’t let it boil!
- Mix in cocoa powder and sugar until you see no grains. This is crucial for smoothness!
- Add chocolate chips gradually and keep stirring until fully melted.
- Finish with peppermint extract, and stir to incorporate well.
How to Make Candy Cane Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Whipped cream for topping
- 2 candy canes, crushed (plus 1-2 whole for garnish)
- Optional: green and red sugar sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Candy Cane Hot Chocolate is quick to prepare! You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready, so in no time at all, you’ll be sipping on your delicious hot cocoa!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk:
Start by pouring 2 cups of whole milk into a medium saucepan. Place it over medium heat and warm it up gently, stirring occasionally. You want it to be warm, but don’t let it boil!
2. Mix in Cocoa and Sugar:
Once your milk is warm, add in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Whisk them together until everything is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the Chocolate:
Now, it’s time for the yummy part! Stir in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) into the warm milk mixture. Keep stirring until the chocolate has melted completely and you have a creamy mixture.
4. Flavor It Up:
Remove the saucepan from heat and add in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Stir well to combine all the flavors together—it should smell like a wonderful holiday treat!
5. Pour and Decorate:
Carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Then, generously top each mug with whipped cream for that extra creamy layer!
6. Finish with Festive Touches:
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the whipped cream, and feel free to add some red and green sugar sprinkles for a festive look if you like. Last but not least, you can hook a whole candy cane onto the edge of the mug for that extra holiday spirit!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your Candy Cane Hot Chocolate is ready! Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, minty hot chocolate while it’s warm and cozy. Happy sipping!
Can I Use Other Types of Milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember that the creaminess and flavor might vary slightly, so choose a milk that you enjoy!
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the hot chocolate in advance! Make the mixture, let it cool, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
How to Store Leftover Hot Chocolate?
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, making sure to stir well to combine any ingredients that may have settled.
Can I Substitute the Peppermint Extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use crushed peppermint candies or mint chocolate chips for flavor. Just add them to the milk mixture while it’s warming, and make sure they melt well for that minty taste!
