Can I make this hot chocolate ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the hot chocolate base ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.

What’s the best nondairy milk to use?

Full-bodied options like oat milk , soy milk , or coconut milk work best for a creamy texture. Almond milk works too, but will be slightly lighter.

Why did my chocolate seize or get grainy?

This usually happens when the heat is too high. Melt the chocolate slowly over low heat and whisk continuously.

How strong is the peppermint flavor?

Peppermint extract is very concentrated. Start with less and add more to taste—too much can overpower the chocolate.

Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?

You can, but the flavor will be less rich. If using cocoa powder, add extra sweetener and a small amount of vegan butter or coconut cream for richness.

Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Mug of peppermint hot chocolate, jug of milk, and a jar of crushed candy canes.

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Rich hot chocolate full of peppermint flavor and topped with homemade dairy-free whipped cream and crushed candy canes. All vegan!

Author: Lyndsey Hiltner
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Beverages
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

For the Hot Chocolate

2 1/2 cups nondairy milk*

1/2 cup nondairy chocolate chips

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Whipped Cream

1/2 cup nondairy heavy cream

2-4 tablespoons powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving

candy canes

crushed candy canes

mini vegan marshmallows

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Simmer: 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 stir in the peppermint extract.
Beat: Beat together the nondairy heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla extract with an electric hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Chill until ready to use.
Assemble: 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 candy canes if desired. Serve.

Equipment

electric hand mixer

Buy Now →

mixing bowl

Buy Now →

Notes

*Serve hot chocolate immediately after preparation.

*You can use any nondairy milk here but creamier varieties work best. I like to use oat milk.

Find it online: https://censoredbaker.com/vegan-peppermint-hot-chocolate/