Easy Peppermint Hot Chocolate
A rich and festive peppermint hot chocolate made with a silky ganache base. This cozy winter drink is perfect for the holiday season and can be made ahead for quick preparation.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3½ ounces (100g) 70% dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 3½ ounces (100g) double cream
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup milk of choice (250ml)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
- Marshmallows, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until scalded (small bubbles form and steam rises).
- Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped chocolate and salt in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add peppermint extract and stir to incorporate. Let cool slightly, then refrigerate for 45 minutes until set.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of ganache into a mug with a splash of hot milk. Stir or microwave in 30-second intervals until melted into a thick chocolate base.
- Add the remaining hot milk and whisk until smooth.
- Sweeten with maple syrup if desired. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings and serve.
Notes
- Use oat milk or soy cream for a vegan version.
- Store ganache in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for best flavor.
- Microwave method is faster for preparing a single cup.
Find it online: https://www.recipebyelena.com/peppermint-hot-chocolate/