Over the years, I’ve tweaked and tinkered with various recipes, trying to get that perfect blend of rich chocolate and minty goodness. This one, with its simple ingredients and straightforward process, stands out for its ability to make even the chilliest days feel warm and fuzzy. No need for fancy gadgets or hard-to-find ingredients; it’s all about using what you already have in your pantry. Plus, the aroma that fills the house as it simmers is absolutely irresistible.
With the peppermint hot chocolate simmering away in the slow cooker, you’ll have more time to spend with your family or tackle other tasks while knowing a delightful treat is brewing. It’s always a joy when the smell of cocoa and mint fills the air, beckoning everyone to gather around for a taste.
If you’re like me and appreciate a recipe that doesn’t require a lot of babysitting or advanced skills, you’ll love this one. It’s perfect for those cozy family movie nights or when you’re hosting friends for a holiday gathering. This peppermint hot chocolate is not just about the taste; it’s about creating those warm memories that last a lifetime.
How to Make Cozy Peppermint Hot Chocolate
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Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup boiling water
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 4 cups milk
- ¼ cup cream (or use more milk)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 5-7 crushed candy canes
Directions
- Start by whisking the cocoa powder into the boiling water until you achieve a smooth consistency. Ensure there are no lumps.
- In your slow cooker, combine the chopped dark chocolate, milk, cream, granulated sugar, and crushed candy canes. Pour in the cocoa mixture and give it all a good stir.
- Set the slow cooker to low and let your mixture warm up for about 2 hours, giving it a stir every 30 minutes to blend everything nicely.
- If the chocolate hasn’t fully melted after the first hour, turn the slow cooker to high for the final hour, continuing to stir every half-hour.
- Once the mixture is creamy and well combined, serve your hot chocolate with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, more crushed candy canes, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Storing Suggestion
If you have any leftover peppermint hot chocolate, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a cozy treat.
Cooking Tips
For a richer flavor, try using whole milk or adding a splash of vanilla extract. If you prefer a non-dairy option, almond or oat milk can be a good substitute.
Serving Suggestions
This hot chocolate is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a slice of gingerbread or some holiday cookies. Add a cinnamon stick to each cup for extra warmth and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of dark chocolate, milk chocolate can work, although it may be a bit sweeter. In a pinch, peppermint extract can replace crushed candy canes, adjusting to taste.
Seasonal Variations
Consider adding a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced holiday twist. In the spring, try a fresh mint infusion by steeping mint leaves in the milk before adding to the slow cooker.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy, which can be replaced with non-dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk. For those with chocolate allergies, use carob powder instead of cocoa powder.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before. Combine everything in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply turn on the slow cooker to let it warm up for a fresh batch of hot chocolate.
What if my slow cooker has only high, low, and warm settings?
If your slow cooker doesn’t have a specific setting, keep it on ‘low’ and monitor the melting process. Once everything is heated through, you can switch it to ‘warm’ to maintain the temperature.
Can I use hot cocoa mix instead of unsweetened cocoa powder?
While you can use a hot cocoa mix, keep in mind it may sweeten the hot chocolate further, so you might want to adjust the sugar accordingly. The flavor may also differ slightly compared to using pure cocoa powder.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is easy to scale. Double the ingredients accordingly, and ensure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the increased volume. Cooking time may remain the same; just stir frequently.
How can I make this hot chocolate thicker?
For a thicker consistency, add some cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and cold water) while it’s cooking. Alternatively, use less milk and more cream, stirring well to incorporate everything.
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with different chocolates like milk or white chocolate. Just note that it may alter the sweetness and flavor profile. Using a blend of chocolates can also provide a complex taste.
Cozy Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup boiling water
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup cream or use more milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5-7 crushed candy canes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the boiling water with the cocoa powder until it’s nice and smooth.
- Toss the chopped dark chocolate, milk, cream, sugar, and crushed candy canes into your slow cooker, along with the cocoa mixture. Set it on low for 2 hours, giving it a stir every 30 minutes.
- If the chocolate isn’t melting well after the first hour, switch it to high for the last hour, stirring every half hour.
- When it's all melted and warmed up, serve it with marshmallows, whipped cream, extra crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Enjoy your cozy treat!
