Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Nothing beats homemade and that pretty much is my sentiment for all our kitchen creations including Peppermint Hot Chocolate!

In about the time you boil water, pull out a mug and grab your package of store bought hot chocolate mix you can make this quick and easy recipe. The wonderful thing is that you can get creative with textures by pulsing the hot chocolate in a blender to make it extra frothy, drop in a few marshmallows and enjoy it or you can really add huge flavour to it by adding peppermint extract, whipping cream and topping it with our favourite choices for optional decorations to really pretty up a plate for presentation.

Nothing beats the taste of hot cocoa when you're sitting by the fire while it's blustery cold outside.

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp cocoa powder

1 to 2 tbsp sugar (omit if using sweetened cocoa powder)

pinch of salt

1 cup of milk (we combined 1/2 milk and half and half cream to make it rich and creamy)

1 to 2 drops of peppermint extract

Optional decoration:

mini marshmallows, whipped cream, crushed peppermint candy, candy cane or chocolate spoon

DIRECTIONS

In a small sauce pan combine cocoa, sugar (if using) and about 1/4 cup of milk over medium heat until the cocoa and sugar are dissolved, whisk in the balance of the milk and peppermint and continue to whisk until hot and steamy.

Pour into a mug and enjoy on its own or add your favourite toppings!                            

*This recipe doubles or triples quite easily!*