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
Scale
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
