Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
Introduction
Warm up your chilly days with a rich and festive peppermint hot cocoa mix that’s quick to prepare and perfect for cozy moments. This homemade blend combines velvety Dutch-processed cocoa with refreshing crushed peppermint candies for a delightful holiday 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
- 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.
- Step 2: Transfer the mix to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
- Step 3: To make one serving of hot chocolate, heat 1 cup of whole milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in ¼ cup of the peppermint hot chocolate mix until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the hot cocoa into a mug and garnish with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or crushed peppermint candies if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, which also pairs beautifully with peppermint flavors.
- Adjust the amount of crushed peppermint candies to your preferred mint intensity.
- Use mini candy canes crushed finely as an alternative to peppermint candies for a more rustic texture.
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, mix fresh to maintain the peppermint flavor and ensure the cocoa dissolves evenly. Reheat prepared hot chocolate gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for best results.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder, but Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother, less acidic flavor that complements the peppermint well.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
Reduce the granulated sugar by up to half and adjust according to taste. Keep in mind that the peppermint candies add sweetness, so balance accordingly.
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Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
This Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix is a festive and flavorful blend of Dutch-processed cocoa powder, sugar, and crushed peppermint candies, perfect for creating a rich and creamy peppermint hot chocolate. It’s easy to prepare and store, making it a convenient treat to enjoy during the holiday season or any chilly day.
Ingredients
Dry Mix 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 (for serving, approximately 1 cup per serving)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
- Peppermint candies, crushed (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups Dutch-processed cocoa powder, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 cup finely crushed peppermint candies until all components are fully combined, creating the peppermint hot cocoa mix.
- Store Mix: Transfer the prepared hot cocoa mix to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Heat Milk: To prepare a serving of hot chocolate, pour 1 cup of whole milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling.
- Add Hot Cocoa Mix: Remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk in ¼ cup of the peppermint hot cocoa mix thoroughly until fully dissolved and smooth, creating a rich hot chocolate.
- Serve with Toppings: Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and garnish with optional toppings such as whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or crushed peppermint candies to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For finely crushed peppermint candies, place peppermint candies in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or a heavy object.
- Make sure the milk is steaming but not boiling to prevent scorching and to achieve the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of hot cocoa mix per serving to preference for a stronger or milder peppermint flavor.
- Store the mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent clumping from moisture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint hot cocoa, hot chocolate mix, peppermint drink, holiday cocoa mix, warm beverage
