Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

Introduction

Warm up your winter evenings with this delightful Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix. It combines rich Dutch-processed cocoa with a refreshing peppermint twist, making it the perfect cozy treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (177 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup peppermint candies, finely crushed (about 40 starlight peppermint candies)
• Whole milk, for serving
• Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
• Mini marshmallows, for topping (optional)
• Peppermint candies, crushed for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Dutch-processed cocoa powder, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and finely crushed peppermint candies until fully combined.
2. Step 2: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
3. Step 3: To make a serving of hot chocolate, heat 1 cup of whole milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
4. Step 4: Remove the milk from heat and whisk in ¼ cup of the peppermint hot chocolate mix until fully dissolved and smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the hot cocoa into a mug and garnish with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and crushed peppermint candies as desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
• Adjust the amount of peppermint candies in the mix to suit your personal taste for mintiness.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract to the hot milk for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try topping with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a twist.

Storage

Store the peppermint hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply whisk the desired amount into hot milk. Prepared hot cocoa is best enjoyed immediately but can be gently reheated if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this hot cocoa mix spicy?

Yes! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon to the mix will give your hot cocoa a warm, spicy kick.

How do I crush the peppermint candies?

Place the peppermint candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them using a rolling pin or the back of a spoon until they reach a fine, sandy texture.

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

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4.8 from 111 reviews

This Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make blend of Dutch-processed cocoa, sugar, salt, and crushed peppermint candies, perfect for creating comforting and festive hot chocolate at home. It can be stored for up to three months and customized with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and more crushed peppermint for a cozy winter treat.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 4 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (177 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup peppermint candies, finely crushed (about 40 starlight peppermint candies)

For Serving

• Whole milk
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
• Peppermint candies, crushed (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Dutch-processed cocoa powder, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and finely crushed peppermint candies until fully combined and uniform in texture.
2. Store the Mix. Transfer the prepared hot cocoa mix into an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
3. Heat the Milk. To prepare a serving, heat 1 cup of whole milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
4. Mix the Hot Cocoa. Remove the milk from the heat and whisk in ¼ cup of the peppermint hot cocoa mix until the mixture is fully dissolved and smooth.
5. Serve and Garnish. Pour the hot cocoa into a mug and optionally top with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or additional crushed peppermint candies for extra flavor and festive presentation.

Notes

• Crushing the peppermint candies finely helps them dissolve better and distribute flavor evenly.
• Store the mix in an airtight container to preserve flavor and prevent moisture absorption.
• The mix can be used to make multiple servings; adjust the quantity of mix to milk ratio as preferred.
• Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, or substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Whipped cream and marshmallows are optional but enhance the festive and rich experience.

Keywords: peppermint hot cocoa mix, hot chocolate, peppermint drink, winter beverage, holiday cocoa, homemade hot chocolate mix