Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate (Creamy, Festive & Irresistible)

This Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate combines rich cocoa, melted chocolate, and crushed candy canes for a creamy, festive treat that tastes like Christmas in a mug!

Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate: A Holiday Hug in a Mug

Few things capture the magic of the holidays like a steaming cup of Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate. It’s rich, creamy, and infused with cool peppermint — just like your favorite Christmas candy.

This recipe takes classic hot cocoa and gives it a festive twist with real chocolate, a touch of vanilla, and a topping of whipped cream and crushed candy canes. It’s perfect for cozy nights by the fireplace, holiday parties, or snowy mornings when you just need something extra sweet and comforting.

It’s a recipe that brings smiles to everyone — from kids sipping from candy cane straws to adults sneaking in an extra marshmallow (or two).

Recipe Card

Servings: 2 large mugs Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Hot Chocolate:

• 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of choice)

• ½ cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)

• ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

• 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅛ teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Toppings:

• Whipped cream

• Crushed peppermint candy or candy canes

• Mini marshmallows (optional)

• Shaved chocolate (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Warm over medium heat until hot but not boiling.

2. Whisk in the Chocolate: Add chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar. Whisk constantly until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

3. Add Flavor: Stir in vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Taste and adjust the sweetness or peppermint strength as desired.

4. Serve: Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, and mini marshmallows.

5. Optional Touch: Drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with shaved chocolate for an extra indulgent finish.

Tips for the Best Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate

• For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk and coconut cream.

• Make it extra decadent by stirring in white chocolate chips.

• Add a splash of peppermint schnapps or Baileys for an adult version.

• Use a milk frother to get that café-style creamy texture.

• Garnish with a mini candy cane hanging on the rim for a festive touch.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate is pure holiday cheer in a mug — rich, creamy, and delightfully minty. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to spread joy with every sip.

Perfect for Christmas mornings, cookie exchanges, or quiet winter nights by the fire.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment, rate it, and share it on Pinterest or Instagram with #MyKitchenFavorites!