Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A Holiday Classic Done Right

Looking for the perfect peppermint hot chocolate recipe?

Your search ends here. This peppermint hot chocolate is rich, cozy, and thoughtfully balanced. Not overly sweet and definitely not chalky. The difference is our El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup, made to deliver real peppermint flavor without the artificial bite you get from crushed candies or extracts.

It’s the kind of cocoa you make on a cold night when you want something comforting but still elevated. Easy enough for a weeknight, special enough for holiday gatherings, and simple to make without the alcohol to share with the children or those nights you want to indulge spirit free.

The Secret to a Better Peppermint Hot Chocolate

What makes this peppermint hot chocolate work so well is simple. Quality ingredients and an easy, repeatable method. Instead of crushed candy canes that can turn gritty or overly sharp, we use El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup for a smooth, consistent peppermint flavor that melts right into the cocoa. It also gives you control, whether you want just a hint of mint or something a little more pronounced.

This is more than just a drink. It’s the kind of cocoa that becomes part of the holiday routine, one mug at a time.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

x Christa Cotton
📸: Jes Gutierrez-Switaj
This recipe makes approximately six servings.

Ingredients

• 4 cups Milk (we used whole, but skim or nut based milks are fine, too!)
• ¹⁄₃ cup Hot water
• ¹⁄₄ cup Sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup Cocoa powder
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1-2 dashes Salt
• 5 oz El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup
• 4 oz Crème de cacao
• Melted chocolate, crushed candy canes, and marshmallows, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and hot water.
2. Form a paste: Whisk the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble and the sugar and cocoa powder are fully dissolved. Continue to stir for two minutes until it forms a smooth, thick paste.
3. Add milk: Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan while whisking. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Heat the cocoa: Continue to simmer until the cocoa is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
5. Finish the drink: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup, and crème de cacao. For a stronger drink, you can add an ounce or two of vodka at this point.
6. Prepare the mugs: Dip the rims of your mugs in melted chocolate, then dredge in crushed candy canes. Let them dry for a moment.
7. Serve: Ladle about one cup of hot chocolate into each prepared mug. Garnish with a handful of marshmallows and serve immediately. Cheers!

Tips & Variations

• Make it kid-friendly: Simply omit the creme de cacao to make this a delicious non-alcoholic treat for all ages.
• Add more chocolate: For an even richer flavor, stir in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped chocolate with the milk.
• Use different milk: This recipe works beautifully with whole milk for a creamy texture, but you can also use dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between hot chocolate and hot cocoa?

Hot cocoa is typically made with cocoa powder, milk, and sugar, resulting in a thinner drink. Hot chocolate, on the other hand, is made from melted solid chocolate, which creates a richer, thicker, and more decadent beverage. This El Guapo™ recipe falls somewhere in between, using cocoa powder but creating a thick, creamy consistency.

What type of milk is best for this recipe, and can I use non-dairy options?

While the recipe suggests using whole milk for a creamy texture, it also states that the recipe works beautifully with skim milk or dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk.

Can I make a large batch of this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a crowd. Simply maintain the same ingredient ratios and use a larger pot.