Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Warm and creamy peppermint hot chocolate with a hint of vanilla and crushed peppermint candies, perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, stir Nestle Quik and milk until smooth.
- Over medium heat, heat the mixture to boiling.
- Stir in crushed peppermint candy.
- Heat until tiny bubbles form around the edge of the pan.
- Do not boil.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla.
- Pour into cups or mugs.
- Top with marshmallows.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or a combination of milk and cream. You can substitute the crushed peppermint candy with peppermint extract; use about 1 teaspoon for a similar taste. If you're looking for a lower sugar option, try using unsweetened cocoa powder and adjusting the sweetness to your liking. This creamy hot chocolate pairs beautifully with Wedding Party Punch for a festive gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peppermint hot chocolate in festive mugs and top generously with marshmallows or whipped cream for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top adds a nice touch. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it alongside Peanut Butter Fudge Rolls or Boiled Chocolate Cookies for a sweet treat experience everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peppermint hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour it into a saucepan and warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Hot Chocolate contains roughly 1159 calories, with 2g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peppermint hot chocolate in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This is a great way to have a cozy drink ready for gatherings or busy evenings.
What can I use instead of Nestle Quik?
If you don’t have Nestle Quik, you can substitute it with unsweetened cocoa powder. Just mix the cocoa with sugar to taste in the same quantity. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the sweetness based on your preference since Nestle Quik is already sweetened.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this peppermint hot chocolate dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice. Ensure that the peppermint candy is also dairy-free, or use a dairy-free chocolate option to keep it aligned with your dietary needs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).