Candy Cane Cocoa is a festive take on rich, creamy hot chocolate! The traditional soothing tastes of warm chocolate and creamy milk are combined with the crisp, revitalizing flavor of peppermint. Its silky, decadent texture comes from the use of semi-sweet, optional white chocolate in its creation. The drink gets its distinctive minty flavor from peppermint extract or crushed candy canes, making it ideal for the holidays. The drink looks festive and tastes great because it is garnished with marshmallows, fluffy whipped cream, and extra crushed candy canes. On chilly winter days, this cocoa’s lovely blend of sweetness and mintiness makes it perfect for sipping by the fire or during a festive celebration.
For the winter months, try this delectable Candy Cane Cocoa recipe! Rich, creamy, and with a hint of mint, it’s ideal for Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients:
- Two cups of milk (or any other type of milk substitute, such as oat or almond milk)
- For added creaminess, use half a cup of heavy cream
- Half a cup of chopped chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Half a cup of white chocolate chips for a sweeter touch
- Two teaspoons of sugar (optional, based on your preferred level of sweetness)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed candy canes or peppermint extract
- Two or three crushed candy canes for decoration
- Whipping cream (to garnish)
- Mini marshmallows (for garnish, if desired)
Instructions:
- Put the milk, heavy cream, and sugar (if using) in a medium saucepan. Stirring occasionally, cook the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.
- To the saucepan, add the white and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Continue to stir until the chocolate has melted completely and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Add the peppermint and vanilla extracts after the chocolate has been completely mixed in. Its distinctive candy cane flavor comes from the peppermint extract, so taste and adjust to your preferred level of mintiness.
- Pour the cocoa into mugs, allowing room for toppings and whipped cream at the top.
- Add a good amount of whipped cream on top of the cocoa. Add more chocolate shavings, small marshmallows, or crushed candy canes as a festive garnish.
- Just before serving, mix a little amount of crushed candy cane into the hot cocoa to add a hint of mint.
- Have fun! Enjoy the comforting, holiday taste of candy cane cocoa by taking it gently.
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