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
Scale
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.
