If you are craving a decadent, cozy drink that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful beverage combines the rich depth of smooth, bittersweet chocolate with the refreshing lift of peppermint-infused whipped cream, creating a perfect balance of comfort and festive flair. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or entertaining friends with a special treat, this recipe is simple enough to whip up quickly yet impressive enough to make everyone smile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view shows a woman's hand holding a small clear glass bowl filled with dark chocolate chunks above a white speckled pot. Inside the pot is a smooth, frothy milk chocolate liquid with tiny bubbles and small pieces of chocolate floating on the surface. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a textured, neutral-colored cloth partially visible beneath it. The scene captures the moment before the chocolate pieces are added to the warm chocolate liquid. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe serves a simple but important purpose, giving you that ideal mix of creamy, chocolaty, and minty goodness. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this cozy beverage come to life.

1½ cups whole milk: This is the creamy base that delivers smoothness and richness to your hot chocolate.
½ cup heavy cream (for hot chocolate): Adds luscious thickness, making each sip velvety and indulgent.
3 tablespoons cocoa powder: Use Dutch-processed or unsweetened for deep chocolate flavor without any sweetness.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the drink perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
2 ounces bittersweet chocolate (chopped): At least 70% cocoa for the authentic, intense chocolate punch.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract: Offers warm, aromatic notes that round out the chocolate.
½ cup heavy cream (for peppermint whipped cream): Whipped to fluffy perfection to top your drink with a minty finish.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream for a creamy cloud on top.
½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract: Adds extra depth and enhances the whipped cream’s flavor.
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract: The star of the whipped cream, providing that refreshing, festive peppermint kick.

How to Make Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Milk and Cream

Start by combining 1½ cups whole milk and ½ cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. Warm it gently until you see steam rising from the surface but before it even starts simmering. This careful heating is crucial to achieving that silky base that will carry all the chocolate flavors wonderfully.

Step 2: Incorporate the Cocoa Powder

Next, sift in 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the warm milk and cream mixture. Whisk it in thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps, creating a smooth, rich chocolate foundation for your drink.

Step 3: Sweeten the Blend

Add 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, stirring continuously until it dissolves completely. This step balances the bitterness of the cocoa and bittersweet chocolate, brightening the flavor beautifully.

Step 4: Melt in the Bittersweet Chocolate

Now, add the chopped bittersweet chocolate in two parts, stirring after each addition until it melts completely. This gradual melting is key to achieving that deep, luscious chocolate flavor that makes Tini’s Hot Chocolate so special.

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Final Heat

Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste or extract, then keep heating the mixture gently for 2 more minutes. This extra time lets all the flavors marry perfectly. Then, remove from heat and set it aside while you prepare the whipped cream.

Step 6: Whip up the Peppermint Whipped Cream

In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste, and ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract. Whip the mixture using a hand mixer or whisk until soft or stiff peaks form, depending on your preference. Soft peaks will melt enticingly into the hot chocolate, while stiff peaks work wonderfully if you want to pipe the cream on with a pretty swirl.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Pour the steaming hot chocolate into your favorite mugs and dollop or pipe on the peppermint whipped cream. If you want to elevate the presentation, sprinkle some chocolate shavings, festive sprinkles, or crushed peppermint candies on top. This final touch adds extra flair and texture that makes Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe

The image shows two clear glass mugs with thick, dark brown hot chocolate. The mug in the front is being filled from a gray pot with creamy hot chocolate pouring smoothly. The mug behind it has a thick layer of white whipped cream on top, sprinkled with small chocolate shavings. Both mugs stand on a wooden board that has chocolate pieces and grated chocolate scattered around. The background is a warm wooden texture, and the whole scene has a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

One of the joys of this recipe is how customizable the presentation can be. Beyond the peppermint whipped cream, adding a sprinkle of grated bittersweet chocolate or a few crushed candy canes instantly upgrades the visual appeal while adding bursts of flavor and crunch. Mini marshmallows are also a charming option for an extra cozy touch.

Side Dishes

This rich and decadent drink pairs beautifully with light treats that won’t compete with its intense flavors. Think delicate shortbread cookies, buttery biscotti, or even a slice of spiced gingerbread. These sides complement the chocolate and peppermint notes, letting you savor the whole experience more fully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an added wow factor, serve Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe in clear glass mugs so the layers of chocolate and fluffy cream are visible. You could also rim the glasses with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate sprinkles for a festive, eye-catching touch. If you’re hosting, individual spoons of whipped cream on the side let everyone customize their own mug, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some hot chocolate leftover, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the peppermint whipped cream separate as it doesn’t store well once whipped. When ready, reheat the hot chocolate gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe is not ideal for freezing once combined, as the dairy and chocolate textures may change. However, you can freeze the unsweetened cocoa powder and chopped chocolate separately to use fresh hot chocolate on demand.

Reheating

To reheat your stored hot chocolate, warm it slowly over low heat on the stove while stirring gently. Avoid boiling to maintain that creamy texture and prevent any separation. Top it off freshly with peppermint whipped cream for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use milk alternatives for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or any plant-based milk, but expect a slightly different texture and flavor. Using full-fat alternatives will help keep the hot chocolate creamy.

Is peppermint extract necessary for the whipped cream?

Peppermint extract is what gives the whipped cream its signature refreshing flavor in Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe. If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can omit it or substitute with a splash of vanilla for a more classic taste.

How do I know when to stop whipping the cream?

For a spoonable whipped cream that melts into the drink, stop at soft peaks—when the cream holds shape but still feels smooth. For decorating or piping, whip to stiff peaks so it keeps firm on top of your hot chocolate.

Can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the peppermint whipped cream a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle whisk before serving to refresh its fluffiness.

What type of chocolate works best?

Bittersweet chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content is best because it provides rich, complex flavors without too much sweetness, perfectly complementing the cocoa powder and balancing the sugar in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a special, heartwarming beverage to your repertoire, give Tini’s Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Whipped Cream Recipe a try. It’s an easy yet elegant way to impress yourself or your guests, combining simple ingredients into a magical drink that cradles you with every sip. Cozy up and enjoy this delicious treat—you deserve it!