Rich Peppermint Hot Chocolate Made with Silky Ganache

I first made this peppermint hot chocolate on a snowy December evening after my usual powdered mix felt more like flavored water than a real treat. I craved something richer—something decadent enough to feel like dessert, yet soothing enough to sip slowly by the fireplace. That’s when the idea of folding peppermint into a ganache came to life. The result? A thick, velvety drink that makes every cup feel like a holiday ritual.

This peppermint hot chocolate isn’t just a step above your average mug—it’s a leap. It’s festive without being fussy, indulgent but approachable, and shockingly simple once you’ve made the base. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a new winter staple.

Recipe Overview & Why You’ll Love It

This peppermint hot chocolate starts with a ganache base, giving it a luxurious texture and depth that powdered cocoa can’t touch. Each sip is creamy, cooling from the mint and warming from the richness of the dark chocolate.

You’ll love this if you want:

• A hot chocolate with true chocolate flavor (no cocoa powder here)
• A make-ahead option that doubles as truffles
• A dairy-optional drink that’s easy to adapt for dietary needs
• A festive beverage that feels like a homemade hug

Ganache makes this recipe stand out—melted into warm milk, it becomes silky and indulgent, ideal for a night in or serving guests.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ganache Base

• 100g (3.5 oz) 70% dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 100g (3.5 oz) double cream (48% fat)
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract

Substitutions & Notes:

• Use milk or white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier result.
• For dairy-free, swap double cream with coconut cream or soy-based alternatives.
• Choose high-quality peppermint extract; poor-quality ones can taste artificial.

To Serve

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional; adjust to taste)
• 250ml (1 cup) milk of choice (dairy, oat, almond, soy all work well)

Optional Garnishes:

• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Crushed candy canes
• Marshmallows

Maple syrup is especially helpful when using high-cacao dark chocolate, as it softens the bitter edge without overpowering the mint.

Equipment You’ll Need

No fancy tools required—just a few basics you probably already have:

• Small saucepan (for scalding cream and milk)
• Heatproof bowl (for ganache mixing)
• Whisk or spoon (for stirring ganache and hot chocolate)
• Mug or heat-safe cup
• Microwave-safe mug (optional for reheating)
• Digital thermometer (optional, to hit 180°F/82°C when scalding cream)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Ganache

Pour 100g (3.5 oz) double cream into a small saucepan. Heat over medium until it begins to steam and small bubbles form at the edges—this is your target scalding point (82°C / 180°F). Do not let it boil.

In a heatproof bowl, add 100g finely chopped 70% dark chocolate and ⅛ teaspoon sea salt. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes.

After 5 minutes, stir gently until smooth and glossy. Stir in ½ teaspoon peppermint extract.

Step 2 – Set and Store

Let the ganache cool on the counter. For softer texture (easy to spoon), leave it at room temperature. For firmer scooping, refrigerate for 45 minutes until set.

Once set, roll into 1 tablespoon-sized balls. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Step 3 – Make the Peppermint Hot Chocolate

To prepare a mug, scoop 2 tablespoons of ganache (or 2 ganache balls) into your favorite mug. Add a splash of hot milk and stir or whisk until it melts into a thick chocolate pool.

Top up with the remaining hot milk (approx. 1 cup total). Stir to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup as needed.

Step 4 – Garnish and Serve

Top your peppermint hot chocolate with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate curls. For festive flair, add crushed candy cane or peppermint bark. Serve hot.

Why This Recipe Works

This peppermint hot chocolate skips cocoa powder entirely, which avoids the bitterness and chalky mouthfeel many powdered mixes bring. Instead, the ganache base gives you control over richness and texture.

Using scalded cream to melt chocolate is a professional pastry technique. It prevents scorching while ensuring a smooth, glossy ganache. Stirring in peppermint extract after the ganache cools slightly keeps the flavor vibrant.

You also get flexibility: the ganache keeps in the fridge, so you’re always just a mug away from comfort.

Pro Tips & Variations

Pro Tips

• Chop chocolate finely for faster, smoother melting.
• Avoid over-stirring; mix gently to prevent splitting.
• Keep a batch of ganache balls in the fridge for a week of easy drinks.
• Oat milk creates the creamiest dairy-free result.

Flavor Variations

• Use orange, vanilla, or hazelnut extract instead of peppermint.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for warmth.
• Make a mocha: stir in ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder before serving.
• For adults, add a splash of Irish cream or peppermint schnapps.

Scaling

• Half the recipe for 2–3 mugs
• Double or triple for a party—keep warm in a slow cooker

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing

This peppermint hot chocolate is ideal for prepping in advance.

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the ganache and refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: Roll ganache into balls and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keeps for 2–3 months.
• Reheating: To serve, thaw frozen ganache overnight in the fridge or melt from cold with a splash of hot milk using a microwave or stovetop.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Enjoy peppermint hot chocolate on its own, or elevate it with sweet pairings.

Pair With:

• Chocolate-dipped biscotti
• Shortbread or mint cookies
• Cinnamon buns or festive pastries

Serving Ideas:

• Add crushed peppermint on whipped cream for crunch
• Serve in clear mugs for a layered presentation
• Create a hot chocolate bar with toppings for holiday parties

Dietary Notes & Allergen Considerations

• Vegetarian: Yes, as written.
• Vegan: Yes, if using plant-based cream, milk, and chocolate.
• Gluten-Free: Yes, assuming your chocolate is certified GF.
• Nut-Free: Yes, if milk and chocolate are nut-free.

Always check labels, especially for extracts and chocolate, which can have hidden allergens.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• Ganache split → Cream may have been too hot or stirred too vigorously. Fix by adding 1–2 teaspoons warm milk and whisking slowly.
• Too thick → Add more milk gradually while heating.
• Too bitter → Use milk chocolate or add extra maple syrup.
• Chocolate didn’t melt fully → Ensure chocolate is finely chopped and allow full 5-minute rest under cream before stirring.

Nutritional Information (per serving; estimates)

• Serving Size: 1 mug
• Calories: 282 kcal
• Sugar: 17.6g
• Sodium: 172mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20.6g
• Fiber: 1.8g
• Protein: 9.9g
• Cholesterol: 39mg

Note: Values will vary slightly depending on milk choice and toppings.

FAQs

Conclusion

This peppermint hot chocolate is more than just a winter drink—it’s a cozy ritual in a mug. From the richness of real dark chocolate to the cool burst of peppermint, every element is built for comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re watching snow fall or hosting a holiday gathering, it delivers both flavor and ease.

Make it once, and you’ll see why ganache-based hot chocolate changes the game. Keep a jar of ganache ready in the fridge, customize it to your taste, and let every cup remind you why homemade always wins.

More Tasty Ideas

• Christmas Coffee: A cozy holiday drink featuring warm spices and bold coffee flavors, this festive beverage is a perfect companion to peppermint hot chocolate. It’s easy to customize with cream, whipped topping, or flavored syrups for a seasonal treat.
• Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies blend rich chocolate chips with cool peppermint, echoing the flavor profile of peppermint hot chocolate. Great for pairing or serving alongside your holiday drink.
• Boozy Peppermint Mocha Coffee: This adult-friendly twist on classic hot chocolate features peppermint, chocolate, and a hint of liqueur. It’s an elevated option for holiday evenings when you want something rich and relaxing.

Rich & Cozy Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Print Recipe

A rich and festive peppermint hot chocolate made with a silky ganache base using real dark chocolate and cream. This cozy holiday drink is easy to prepare ahead and perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings.

• Author: Benchi
• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 52 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Drinks
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 ½ ounces (100g) 70% dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 3 ½ ounces (100g) double cream (48% fat)
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (to serve, optional)
• 1 cup (250ml) milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)

Instructions

1. Heat the double cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until scalded (steaming with small bubbles forming around the edges).
2. Place the chopped chocolate and sea salt in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. After 5 minutes, gently stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Stir in the peppermint extract until well combined.
5. Let the ganache cool at room temperature or refrigerate for about 45 minutes until set.
6. To serve, place 2 tablespoons of ganache (or 2 ganache balls) into a mug. Add a splash of hot milk and stir or microwave in 30-second bursts until melted.
7. Pour in the remaining hot milk and stir until smooth. Sweeten with maple syrup if desired.
8. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings if using, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Use vegan cream and chocolate to make this dairy-free and vegan.
• Ganache can be rolled into 1 tablespoon balls and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Microwaving the ganache with a bit of milk makes preparation faster.
• Oat milk gives a particularly creamy result for dairy-free versions.