White Peppermint Hot Cocoa

It’s definitely getting colder outside. That means it is time for all of the hot beverages! And hot chocolate is always a winter weather necessity. Here’s a spin with White Peppermint Hot Cocoa. I have been told that I am not truly a chocolate fan if I like white chocolate, but I do. I like dark and semisweet as well. And to mix it up a bit, I like to throw in some white, what can I say? And with Christmas right around the corner, you are almost obligated to add in the peppermint flavor as well, right?

Now, traditionally people make their hot cocoa with regular milk. I cannot handle it, so I tend to use either almond milk or soy milk in mine. Some days I can handle adding whipping cream and other days I cannot. I like to mix it up. Use whatever kind of milk best suits you. I do have to say that I am not sure how coconut milk would taste, but whatever floats your boat! It could be good. It’s just not my favorite. You can also whip this up in the microwave or make the whole house smell good by making it on the stove. Remember to let the kids help as well! And now without further ado…

Ingredients for White Peppermint Hot Cocoa:

• 8 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 3 cups milk (whatever kind you prefer to use)
• 1 cup whipping cream (or use an extra cup of milk if you can’t handle the whipping cream)
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

How to Make White Peppermint Hot Cocoa:

1. Place the chocolate in a large microwave safe measuring cup.
2. Add the milk and whipping cream.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Microwave the cocoa on high for 5 minutes.
5. Remove and stir until the chocolate has completely melted.
6. Top with garnish, if desired, like marshmallows, white chocolate shavings, crushed peppermints, regular chocolate drizzle. Use a candy cane as a stir stick!

OR

1. Place the chocolate in a pan over low heat.
2. As the chocolate is melting, stir it so that it doesn’t burn and start adding the milk and whipping cream.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Keep stirring until the chocolate has melted and the ingredients are mixed. 
5. Top with whatever garnish you want!

You can also dress it up for adults by adding in peppermint schnapps, Bailey’s, white creme de menthe, white creme de cacao, regular or flavored vodka. The possibilities are endless.

Serves 4