If you love the comforting warmth of peppermint hot chocolate with a festive twist, this Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe is going to be your new go-to treat. It brings together the creamy richness of white chocolate and the cool brightness of peppermint candy canes, all swirled into a cozy cup that feels like a hug from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings, this recipe is as simple as it is irresistible, promising to delight your taste buds with every luscious sip.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe. Each element plays a vital role, from the creamy base to the crunchy peppermint surprise on top, making this treat both indulgent and refreshingly light.
- 6 cups whole milk: Creates a rich and creamy foundation that’s essential for a luscious hot chocolate experience.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Adds velvety smoothness and an indulgent texture that makes every sip heavenly.
- 3 cups white chocolate chips (or chopped high-quality white chocolate): Provides the sweet, creamy flavor that melts perfectly into the milk, delivering that signature white hot chocolate taste.
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract: Gives a refreshing minty zing that brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (adds depth): Deepens the overall flavor, adding warmth and complexity to the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for topping): Brings a festive crunch and a cool peppermint punch, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Pinch of sea salt (balances sweetness): Enhances all the flavors by cutting through the sweetness and rounding out the taste.
- Whipped cream (optional topping): Adds a light, airy finish for extra indulgence when serving.
- White chocolate shavings (optional topping): Garnishes your drink with an elegant, creamy touch that’s sure to impress.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe
Step 1: Heat the base
Start by gently warming the whole milk and heavy cream in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. It’s important not to let the mixture boil; just warm it until it’s hot enough to melt the chocolate, setting the stage for that irresistible creamy texture.
Step 2: Add chocolate and candy canes
Next, stir in the white chocolate chips and the crushed candy canes. Keep stirring until the chocolate has melted completely and combined into a smooth, glossy mixture. The candy canes will start to melt slightly, infusing the hot chocolate with festive peppermint flavor and tiny bursts of texture.
Step 3: Flavor it up
Now, add the peppermint extract, vanilla, and just a pinch of sea salt. These small touches really elevate the hot chocolate, balancing the sweetness and adding layers of flavor that keep your taste buds intrigued with every sip. Let everything heat together for 2-3 more minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Serve
Pour the luscious hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. If you want to go all out, top off each serving with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra crushed candy canes, and delicate white chocolate shavings for that picture-perfect finish.
Step 5: Keep warm
If you’re serving a crowd, transfer the hot chocolate to a slow cooker set on the “warm” setting. This way, everyone can enjoy their Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe at their own pace without it losing its creamy deliciousness.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream is an absolute must for many when enjoying this hot chocolate, adding an airy sweetness that melts into the drink. Crushed candy canes sprinkled on top not only boost the peppermint flavor but add a satisfying crunch. White chocolate shavings lend an elegant touch and a creamy finish that elevates the presentation and the taste.
Side Dishes
To complement the rich and minty hot chocolate, consider serving it alongside classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites for a perfect flavor pairing. Shortbread cookies, biscotti, or even simple sugar cookies also work wonders. Fresh fruit like raspberries can provide a bright contrast, cleansing the palate between sips.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve your Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe in holiday mugs or mason jars with colorful paper straws. Layering the whipped cream with crushed candy canes in clear mugs creates a visually stunning treat. You can also rim your mugs with crushed candy canes by dipping them in a bit of cream or syrup, then rolling them in the crushed candies for a fun and tasty edge.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover hot chocolate, cool it completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain that smooth texture.
Freezing
Because of the dairy content, freezing this hot chocolate is not always ideal but can be done in a pinch. Freeze in small, airtight containers to avoid texture changes when thawing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with gentle stirring. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly grainier after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat your Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring often to prevent burning and encourage a smooth consistency. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving in short bursts with frequent stirring works too—just be careful not to overheat, which can cause the chocolate to seize or separate.
FAQs
Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, swapping in dark or milk chocolate will give the drink a richer, more traditional chocolate flavor. Adjust the amount to taste since darker chocolates tend to be less sweet.
Is peppermint extract necessary for the flavor?
Peppermint extract is what gives this drink its signature festive zing, so it’s highly recommended. However, if you prefer, you can reduce the amount or substitute with a few drops of mint essential oil or omit it entirely for a pure white chocolate hot chocolate.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Use dairy-free white chocolate chips to keep the creamy texture. The flavor will be slightly different but still wonderfully comforting and delicious.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This batch makes about 6 to 8 generous servings, perfect for sharing with family or friends during cozy gatherings or holiday parties.
Can I prepare this ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can make the base ahead, cool it, and refrigerate. Before serving, gently reheat on the stove and add fresh whipped cream and garnishes just before guests arrive for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with this Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe whenever you want something sweet, indulgent, and perfectly festive. It’s so easy to make, yet feels special enough to impress anyone lucky enough to share a mug. So next time you need a quick pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing holiday treat, whip this up and watch smiles spread.
Print
Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these festive and creamy White Chocolate Peppermint Hot Chocolates, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings. This recipe combines rich milk and heavy cream with melted white chocolate chips and refreshing peppermint extract, topped off with crushed candy canes and optional whipped cream and white chocolate shavings for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 6 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cups white chocolate chips (or chopped high-quality white chocolate)
Flavorings and Toppings
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (adds depth)
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for topping)
- Pinch of sea salt (balances sweetness)
- Whipped cream (optional topping)
- White chocolate shavings (optional topping)
Instructions
- Heat the base: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine milk and heavy cream. Stir gently until the mixture is warm but not boiling, to avoid scorching the dairy.
- Add chocolate: Stir in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes into the warm milk mixture. Continue stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Flavor it up: Add the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Let it heat through gently for another 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors perfectly.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, additional crushed candy canes, and white chocolate shavings if desired for added festive flair and texture.
- Keep warm: If serving for a group, transfer the hot chocolate mixture to a slow cooker set on the “warm” setting. This keeps the beverage at the perfect temperature while guests serve themselves.
Notes
- Use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor and smoothness.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your taste; start with less and add more if desired.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond or oat milk and coconut cream, but melting white chocolate may be less smooth.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or keep warm in a slow cooker for parties.
- Crushed candy canes add both flavor and a festive crunch; save some for topping to maintain texture.
