Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate

I think we can all agree that hot chocolate is the best thing about winter and I am here to tell you that this Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the best thing year-round! Rich, velvety hot cocoa infused with festive, minty flavor and topped with all the fixings! These of course include dairy-free whipped cream, crushed peppermint candy and plenty of mini marshmallows. Let's learn how to make it!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here.

Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate Ingredients

For the Hot Chocolate

• Nondairy Milk (2 ½ cups): Non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or coconut milk, serves as the base for the hot chocolate. It provides a creamy texture and a neutral base that allows the chocolate and peppermint flavors to shine.
• Nondairy Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Vegan chocolate chips are a key ingredient for achieving a rich and chocolatey flavor in the hot chocolate. They melt into the milk, creating a velvety and indulgent consistency.
• Sugar (1 tbsp): Sugar adds sweetness to balance the bitterness of the chocolate and enhance the overall flavor. The amount can be adjusted to personal taste preferences. Using a tablespoon provides a sweet and satisfying hot chocolate that doesn't overpower the chocolate and peppermint notes.
• Peppermint Extract (1 tsp): Peppermint extract is the star flavor in this recipe, imparting a refreshing and minty taste to the hot chocolate. Extract provides a concentrated burst of peppermint, elevating the drink and giving it festive character.

For Topping

• Nondairy Whipped Cream: Nondairy whipped cream adds a luxurious and creamy texture to the top of the hot chocolate. It enhances the overall indulgence of the drink and provides a delightful contrast to the warmth of the liquid.
• Mini Vegan Marshmallows: Mini vegan marshmallows add a classic and comforting element to the hot chocolate. They melt into the drink, creating pockets of gooey sweetness.
• Crushed Peppermint: Crushed peppermint serves as both a colorful garnish and an additional layer of peppermint flavor. It adds a festive touch to the presentation and provides occasional bursts of intense mintiness as you sip.

Steps for Making Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate (with pictures!)

1. Melt Chocolate: Combine nondairy milk, chocolate chips and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat on stove over medium-low whisking frequently. Continue to heat and whisk until the chocolate is completely melted. Remove from heat and whisk in the peppermint extract.
2. Serve: Allow hot chocolate to cool slightly in the pan. Test it with a spoon to see that it has reached a desirable temperature. Divide the hot chocolate between two mugs and top with nondairy whipped cream, mini vegan marshmallows and crushed peppermint is desired. Serve.

Tips for Making Perfect Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate

1. Choose High-Quality Nondairy Milk: Select a rich and creamy nondairy milk like almond, soy, or coconut milk. The quality of the milk will significantly impact the texture and flavor of your hot chocolate.
2. Use High-Quality Vegan Chocolate Chips: Opt for good-quality vegan chocolate chips or chocolate bars. This will ensure a smooth and rich chocolate flavor in your hot chocolate. Dark chocolate varieties often work well for a more intense cocoa taste.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Taste the hot chocolate as you go and adjust the sweetness to your liking. Add sugar gradually, as personal preferences for sweetness can vary. You can always add more if needed.
4. Be Mindful of Peppermint Extract: Peppermint extract is potent, so start with a small amount and add more if necessary. It's easier to add more later than to correct an overly minty flavor.
5. Heat Milk Gradually: Heat the nondairy milk gradually over medium heat. Be cautious not to scald or boil it, as this can affect the texture and flavor. Stir consistently to prevent the chocolate from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Whisk Continuously: When melting chocolate chips, whisk continuously to ensure they melt evenly into the milk. This helps create a smooth and velvety consistency.
7. Experiment with Toppings: Have fun with toppings! Vegan whipped cream, mini vegan marshmallows, and crushed peppermint are all wonderful choices. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a festive and visually appealing touch.
8. Garnish Just Before Serving: Add the toppings just before serving to maintain their texture and visual appeal. The whipped cream and marshmallows will melt into the hot chocolate, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of nondairy milk for vegan peppermint hot chocolate?

Yes, you can use a variety of nondairy milks such as almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk. Choose one based on your preference for flavor and texture.

Can I make vegan peppermint hot chocolate with cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use cocoa powder in place of chocolate chips. Start with about 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder and adjust according to your taste. This will produce a less rich hot chocolate.

How can I make sure my vegan peppermint hot chocolate is sweet enough?

Taste the hot chocolate as you go and add sweetener (e.g., sugar, maple syrup, agave nectar) gradually. Adjust according to your sweetness preference.

Is there a way to make the hot chocolate less minty if I added too much peppermint extract?

If you've added too much peppermint extract, try diluting the flavor by adding more nondairy milk or sweetener. Alternatively, you can adjust the other ingredients to balance out the mintiness.

FAQ's Continued

Can I make vegan peppermint hot chocolate ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the base (excluding toppings) ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Are there any other optional toppings besides whipped cream, marshmallows, and crushed peppermint?

Certainly! You can get creative with toppings like grated vegan chocolate, a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce and also multi-colored sprinkles for added flavor.

How can I ensure my vegan whipped cream doesn't melt too quickly into the hot chocolate?

If you're concerned about the whipped cream melting too quickly, serve it on the side and allow individuals to add it to their hot chocolate just before drinking.

Can I make a larger batch for a group of people?

Yes, you can scale up the ingredients to make a larger batch. With this in mind, ensure that you maintain the ratios for a balanced flavor.

What does Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate Taste Like?

Peppermint hot chocolate is a fantastic and comforting drink that combines the rich, velvety flavor of hot chocolate with the refreshing and invigorating taste of peppermint. The combination creates a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and minty notes.

1. Chocolatey Richness: The base of peppermint hot chocolate is a classic hot chocolate, which means it has a deep and indulgent chocolate flavor. This richness comes from the use of cocoa or chocolate chips.
2. Creamy Texture: The addition of nondairy milk, such as almond, soy, or coconut milk, contributes to a creamy and smooth texture. This enhances the overall mouthfeel, making the hot chocolate luxurious.
3. Sweetness: The sweetness level can be adjusted to personal preference by adding sweeteners like sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar. The sweet element complements the bitterness of the cocoa, creating a balanced taste.
4. Refreshing Peppermint: The star of the show is the peppermint flavor. Peppermint extract adds a cool and refreshing quality to the hot chocolate. The minty notes cut through the richness of the chocolate, providing a festive contrast.
5. Optional Toppings: Toppings such as vegan whipped cream, mini vegan marshmallows, and crushed peppermint add extra layers of flavor and texture. The whipped cream contributes a creamy and slightly tangy element, while the marshmallows bring a sweet and gooey quality. Crushed peppermint on top enhances the overall minty profile.
6. Festive Aromas: Beyond the taste, peppermint hot chocolate also offers festive aromas. The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a warm and inviting scent that is perfect for the holiday season.

In summary, a well-made peppermint hot chocolate is a delightful fusion of rich chocolate, creamy texture, and refreshing peppermint. The balance of these flavors creates a cozy and festive beverage that is enjoyed during colder months or as a special treat during holidays.

How to Serve Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Serving vegan peppermint hot chocolate is fun, and presentation can enhance the enjoyment of this cozy drink. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to serve it:

1. Prepare the Hot Chocolate: Follow your chosen recipe to prepare the vegan peppermint hot chocolate. Ensure that the chocolate is fully melted, and the flavors are well-balanced.
2. Warm Your Mugs: Before serving, warm your mugs by rinsing them with hot water. This helps maintain the optimal temperature of the hot chocolate.
3. Add Vegan Whipped Cream: If you're using nondairy whipped cream, add a generous dollop on top of the hot chocolate after it has cooled slightly. You can either cover the entire surface or create a decorative swirl.
4. Sprinkle Crushed Peppermint:Sprinkle a pinch of crushed peppermint on top of the whipped cream. This not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the peppermint flavor.
5. Top with Mini Vegan Marshmallows (Optional): If you're a fan of marshmallows, add a handful of mini vegan marshmallows on top of the hot chocolate. They will begin to melt, creating a delightful and gooey texture.
6. Garnish with Additional Toppings (Optional): Get creative with additional toppings such as grated vegan chocolate, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
7. Serve with a Peppermint Stick or Candy Cane (Optional): For a festive touch, you can place a peppermint stick or candy cane alongside the mug. This can also be used as a stirrer or enjoyed as a treat.
8. Enjoy Immediately: Serve the vegan peppermint hot chocolate immediately while it's still hot and the toppings are fresh.

Remember, the key is to create a visually appealing and inviting presentation while allowing individuals to customize their hot chocolate with their preferred toppings.

If you make this recipe please tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

Print

More Warm Vegan Holiday Drinks

• Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Vegan Mexican Hot Chocolate
• Homemade Apple Cider