Indulge in the ultimate winter warm-up with our Peppermint Spiked Hot Chocolate! This delightful concoction combines rich, creamy chocolate with a refreshing kick of peppermint schnapps, making it the perfect treat for cozy nights by the fire or festive gatherings with friends. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this decadent drink that promises to elevate your holiday spirit and tantalize your taste buds. Ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup peppermint schnapps
- Whipped cream for topping
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, and sugar over medium heat, whisking continuously to prevent scorching and ensure smooth incorporation of ingredients.
- Stir the mixture constantly until it reaches a gentle simmer, making sure all cocoa powder and sugar are completely dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the hot chocolate cool slightly for 1-2 minutes to prevent alcohol from burning off quickly.
- Carefully pour in the peppermint schnapps, stirring gently to combine and distribute the alcohol evenly throughout the hot chocolate.
- Divide the spiked hot chocolate between two large mugs, filling them approximately 3/4 full.
- Top each mug generously with whipped cream, creating a thick and fluffy layer.
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for an elegant and decorative finish.
- Serve immediately while hot, and optionally garnish with a small candy cane or peppermint stick for additional festive presentation.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and real peppermint schnapps. The better the ingredients, the richer your hot chocolate will taste.
- Whisk Continuously: When heating the milk and cocoa mixture, whisk continuously to prevent scorching. This ensures a smooth and velvety texture that enhances the drinking experience.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with less sugar and add more as needed.
- Serve with Style: For a festive touch, garnish your hot chocolate with crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of festive sprinkles along with the chocolate shavings.
- Make It a Mocktail: If you want to enjoy this delicious drink without the alcohol, simply omit the peppermint schnapps and add a few drops of peppermint extract for that minty flavor.
- Experiment with Toppings: Besides whipped cream and chocolate shavings, consider adding marshmallows, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or even a dash of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your Peppermint Spiked Hot Chocolate with some holiday cookies or a slice of peppermint bark for a complete festive experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
