Description
This Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix combines the rich, comforting taste of cocoa with a refreshing peppermint twist, perfect for cozy winter mornings. Easy to prepare and store, this homemade mix allows you to quickly enjoy a delicious hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, customizable to your sweetness preference.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup finely crushed candy canes or Peppermint Starlight Mints (about 40 candy mints)
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar (powdered sugar)
- 1 cup unsweetened powdered cocoa (regular or dark)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Crush Candy Canes: In a food processor, process the candy canes or peppermint mints until you have a fine candy dust. Set this aside for mixing.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the confectioners' sugar into a large bowl to remove any clumps. Then, sift the unsweetened cocoa powder into the same bowl to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the salt and the finely crushed peppermint candy dust to the sifted sugar and cocoa mix. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Final Sift and Store: Sift the entire mixture one last time to ensure everything is well blended and smooth. Store the peppermint hot cocoa mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prepare Hot Cocoa - Stove Top: To make a cup of hot cocoa, mix 1 cup of milk with 2-3 tablespoons of the peppermint hot cocoa mix in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a simmer without boiling, stirring constantly to prevent scalding. Pour into a mug, top with whipped cream or mini marshmallows, and garnish with crushed candy canes or mints.
- Prepare Hot Cocoa - Microwave: Alternatively, mix 1 cup of milk with 2-3 tablespoons of the peppermint hot cocoa mix and heat in the microwave until hot and steaming. Serve topped with whipped cream or mini marshmallows and garnish with crushed candy canes or mints.
Notes
- Store the peppermint hot cocoa mix in an airtight container for up to 6 months to preserve freshness.
- Adjust the amount of cocoa mix per cup based on your preferred sweetness and peppermint intensity.
- Use regular or dark cocoa powder depending on your desired chocolate richness.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Be careful not to overheat the milk to avoid scalding, which can affect the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
