Peppermint Hot Chocolate

We got our first measurable snowfall yesterday – only a couple of inches, so it was a nice way to start off December. Nicer, still, because I didn’t have to go anywhere. You won’t see me fighting the crowds at the mall or swearing at the driver who cut me off, in an attempt to get a parking space I wasn’t even interested in.

Instead, I was able to hang out in my pajamas for a little longer than normal, my cat curled up on my lap, a cup of coffee by my side, and enjoying a phone conversation with an old friend. I watched the snowflakes fall, knowing I was in no rush to go outside to brush the snow off my car.

Unfortunately, the predictions were that the temperature would soon be falling. What better way to get cozy than with a mug of peppermint hot chocolate? The best thing about this recipe is that it’s bursting with chocolate flavor without being overpowering. Even better, it’s both kid and adult-friendly: the kids get peppermint hot chocolate, the adults get hot peppermint paddy’s, if that’s their desire.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Hot Peppermint Pattys

3 1/2 cups milk (2% or whole)
1 1/2 cups half and half
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 ounces milk chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract

for garnish:
Whipped cream*
red sugar
mini candy canes

for Hot Peppermint Pattys:
Peppermint Schnapps

Heat milk in large saucepan over medium heat until just below a simmer. Add chocolate and whisk until melted. Add half and half, whisking to combine. Remove from heat.

Whisk in vanilla and peppermint. Pour in mugs and top with whipped cream, red sugar, and mini candy canes. For extra peppermint flavor, drop a candy cane in the mug as well.

For a peppermint patty: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps to the mug, stir, then top with whipped cream.

*To make whipped cream, whip cold cream just until soft peaks form. Mix in powdered sugar to taste.

Tagged as: chocolate, comfort food, mint, peppermint