If you’re craving a cozy treat that instantly warms the soul and fills the room with festive cheer, this Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe is exactly what you need. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a rich, velvety hot chocolate that’s beautifully infused with refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or sharing around the holidays, this mix combines the creamy goodness of powdered milk, the deep notes of special dark cocoa, and that unmistakable sparkle of crushed candy canes. Making your own mix not only saves money but also lets you control the sweetness and peppermint intensity, making every cup uniquely yours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe means gathering a few key ingredients that are easy to find yet make all the difference. Each component plays a special role in flavor, texture, and giving you that beautiful festive color.
- Candy canes (6-oz box, finely crushed): Adds that essential peppermint crunch and aroma that defines this mix.
- Powdered milk (2½ cups): Creates the creamy, smooth body without needing fresh milk on hand.
- Hershey’s Special Dark cocoa powder (1 cup): Delivers a rich, intense chocolate flavor that’s deeper than regular cocoa.
- Powdered sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens the mix perfectly and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Corn starch (1 Tbsp): Thickens the hot chocolate slightly for that luscious mouthfeel we all love.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Candy Canes
The magic begins with finely crushing the candy canes. This doesn’t just add texture but releases the peppermint oils that give the mix its bright, refreshing kick. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush with a rolling pin.
Step 2: Combine All Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the powdered milk, Hershey’s Special Dark cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and corn starch. Stir them gently to distribute everything evenly before adding the crushed candy canes. This ensures that each spoonful of your Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe will taste consistent and delightful.
Step 3: Add Crushed Candy Canes and Mix Thoroughly
Sprinkle in the candy canes and fold them gently into the mixture, being careful not to crush them further. Your peppermint pieces should remain identifiable, bringing a festive burst of flavor and a pretty speckled look throughout the mix.
Step 4: Store Properly
Transfer your finished mix into an airtight container or jar to keep it fresh. Stored in a cool, dry place, your mix will be ready to use whenever you need that instant cozy moment. This step makes this Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe so convenient — truly a ready-to-go winter delight!
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
Garnishes
Top your hot chocolate with fluffy whipped cream and a small candy cane stirrer for that irresistible holiday charm. A sprinkle of crushed candy cane or some mini marshmallows adds a festive finish that’s fun for all ages.
Side Dishes
Pair your peppermint hot chocolate with buttery sugar cookies or a slice of gingerbread loaf for an indulgent treat. The rich chocolate combined with peppermint pairs exceptionally well with subtly spiced or vanilla-flavored baked goods.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your hot chocolate in clear mugs or glass jars so the deep chocolate color shows through. Layer the whipped cream and crushed peppermint on top for a visually stunning cup. You can also gift this mix in decorative jars tied with festive ribbons, turning your Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe into the perfect heartfelt present.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe keeps wonderfully for weeks when stored in an airtight container. Keep it somewhere cool and dry away from sunlight to maintain flavor and freshness.
Freezing
While the mix does not require freezing, you can safely freeze it to prolong shelf life. Use a freezer-safe container and make sure the mix is sealed tightly to avoid moisture intrusion, which can affect texture.
Reheating
No reheating is necessary for the mix itself; simply stir â…“ cup of the mix into 1 cup of hot water or warm milk to melt everything together. For an extra creamy experience, heating with milk works beautifully to enhance the velvety texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh milk instead of powdered milk in the mix?
Powdered milk is key in this recipe to keep the mix shelf-stable, but when preparing the hot chocolate, you can use fresh milk instead of water for a creamier cup.
How finely should I crush the candy canes?
Crush the candy canes finely enough to mix easily but still allow some small chunks for a nice peppermint burst and texture contrast in your drink.
Is Hershey’s Special Dark cocoa powder necessary?
While you can substitute with regular cocoa powder, Hershey’s Special Dark provides a richer, slightly more complex chocolate flavor that really elevates this mix.
Can I make this mix ahead of time as a gift?
Absolutely! This Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe is a wonderful gift idea. Just store it in a decorative jar and attach a tag with preparation instructions.
How much mix should I use per cup of hot chocolate?
Use about â…“ cup of the mix for every 1 cup of hot water or warm milk. Adjust to taste if you prefer a stronger or lighter chocolate flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sipping a warm, peppermint-infused cup of chocolatey goodness during the cooler months, and this Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe brings that comfort right to your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again — perfect for treating yourself or delighting friends and family. Give it a try, and let this festive favorite become part of your cozy routine!
Print
Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 cups
- Category: Beverage Mix
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix is a delightful and easy-to-make blend that brings the comforting taste of chocolate and refreshing peppermint together in one cozy drink. Perfect for winter nights or holiday gatherings, this mix requires no cooking and can be quickly prepared by simply combining crushed candy canes, cocoa powder, powdered milk, powdered sugar, and cornstarch. Just add hot water or warm milk to create a creamy, rich, and minty hot chocolate treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 (6-oz) box candy canes, finely crushed
- 2½ cups powdered milk
- 1 cup Hershey’s Special Dark cocoa powder
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 Tbsp corn starch
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the finely crushed candy canes, powdered milk, Hershey’s Special Dark cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and corn starch until evenly mixed. This will ensure the flavors blend perfectly for an even taste in your hot chocolate mix.
- Store the Mix: Transfer the combined mixture into an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent moisture from getting in. Store in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
- Prepare Hot Chocolate: To enjoy the hot chocolate, combine â…“ cup of the peppermint hot chocolate mix with 1 cup of hot water or warm milk. Stir well until fully dissolved and enjoy your delicious, comforting beverage.
Notes
- For a creamier hot chocolate, use warm milk instead of water.
- If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, add extra crushed candy canes to the mix.
- Store the mix in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping.
- This mix can be a great gift idea when packaged in decorative jars.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of powdered sugar according to your taste.
