Description
A cozy and festive Peppermint Schnapps Hot Chocolate, blending rich cocoa, creamy milk, and a hint of peppermint schnapps for a delightful winter treat. This quick and easy recipe warms you up with smooth melted chocolate and a splash of holiday spirit, topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Hot Chocolate Base
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- ¼ cup (1 ½ ounces) semisweet or dark chocolate chips
Flavoring and Garnish
- 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) 30 or 60 proof peppermint schnapps
- Whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine cocoa and milk: Place a saucepan over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and ¼ cup of the milk, whisking until the cocoa powder is mostly integrated to prevent lumps.
- Add remaining milk: Whisk in the remaining milk gradually until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Add sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate chips: Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and semisweet or dark chocolate chips. Continue heating over medium heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate chips melt completely, approximately 2 minutes. Take care not to boil the mixture to preserve flavor and texture.
- Stir in peppermint schnapps: Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint schnapps to infuse a refreshing minty flavor into the hot chocolate.
- Serve with whipped cream: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a rich and creamy finish. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Do not boil the hot chocolate to avoid curdling and maintain smoothness.
- Adjust peppermint schnapps quantity to taste, especially for a milder or stronger mint flavor.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Non-alcoholic version: omit the schnapps and add peppermint extract instead.
- 2% milk can be substituted with whole milk or a milk alternative for different textures.
