Cozy up with a mug of Peppermint White Hot Chocolate, a delightful winter warmer that's creamy, minty, and perfect for the holiday season. This drink is a soothing blend of silky white chocolate and refreshing peppermint β a sweet treat thatβs as comforting as it is festive.
Whole milk forms the base, giving the drink its rich, creamy texture. Combining it with heavy cream takes the creaminess up a notch, creating a luscious, indulgent mouthfeel. White chocolate not only sweetens the drink but also adds a smooth, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the mint. The peppermint extract is the star here, infusing the beverage with its refreshing, cooling essence. Lastly, whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies add delightful texture and a festive finish.
This Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is a fantastic standalone treat, but if you want to pair it with something, consider serving it alongside some buttery shortbread cookies or chocolate-dipped biscotti. For an extra special touch, serve it in festive mugs with a candy cane stirrer.
Start by pouring the whole milk and heavy cream into a medium-sized saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You'll want to heat it until it's steaming but not boiling; you should see some tiny bubbles forming around the edges, but there shouldnβt be a full rolling boil.
Once the milk and cream are hot, add the chopped white chocolate into the mix. Grab a whisk and stir the mixture gently but continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and you have a smooth, creamy liquid. This should only take a few minutes β make sure to keep an eye on it to avoid any scorching.
Now, stir in the peppermint extract. Just a half teaspoon will do, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences. The extract can be potent, so start with less if you're cautious.
Once everything is well combined, pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. This not only adds a festive touch but also a bit of crunch and extra minty goodness.