Description
Indulge in the festive warmth of Santa’s Christmas Hot Chocolate, a creamy, rich beverage made with melted chocolate, infused with vanilla and optional peppermint, and topped with whimsical holiday garnishes like whipped cream, marshmallows, crushed candy canes, and chocolate shavings. Perfect for cozy winter gatherings or holiday celebrations, this recipe promises a decadent chocolate experience with a touch of peppermint magic.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Chocolate Base
- 3 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup high-quality chocolate chips (dark or milk, depending on your taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for a minty touch)
Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Mini marshmallows
- Crushed candy canes or red and green sprinkles
- Chocolate shavings
- Red sugar or edible glitter (for an extra festive look)
Instructions
- Heat milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, gently warm the whole milk and heavy cream over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and to evenly distribute heat.
- Melt chocolate: Once the mixture is warm, add the chocolate chips and stir constantly until the chocolate fully melts and the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and homogenous.
- Add flavor extracts: Stir in the vanilla extract and, if desired, the peppermint extract to infuse your hot chocolate with classic and festive flavors.
- Warm to serving temperature: Continue heating the hot chocolate carefully until it reaches your preferred drinking temperature, making sure it does not boil as boiling can alter the texture and flavor.
- Prepare garnishes: While the hot chocolate is heating, prepare your festive toppings such as whipped cream, mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, chocolate shavings, and edible glitter or red sugar.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into festive mugs, ensuring even distribution of creamy goodness.
- Garnish: Top each mug generously with whipped cream, sprinkle mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes or red and green sprinkles for crunch and color.
- Final decorative touch: Dust the top with chocolate shavings and add a sprinkle of edible glitter or red sugar to create a magical and festive presentation perfect for holiday celebrations.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
- You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, and coconut cream for a vegan version.
- The peppermint extract is optional but adds a delightful festive twist; adjust amount to taste.
- Do not let the hot chocolate boil to maintain its creamy texture and avoid burning the chocolate.
- Garnishes can be customized according to your preference or dietary restrictions.
- For a less sweet version, opt for dark chocolate chips with higher cocoa content.
- This recipe serves 4 and can be doubled for larger gatherings.
