Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate

Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate is a delightful drink that brings warmth and joy, especially during the chilly winter months. This wonderful treat combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the refreshing taste of peppermint, reminiscent of the classic holiday favorite, peppermint bark. It’s perfect for cozy nights by the fire, festive gatherings, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Making this drink is easy, and it will quickly become a favorite for family and friends.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate. First, it’s incredibly rich and creamy, thanks to the whole milk and sweetened condensed milk, making each sip feel indulgent. Second, the blend of bittersweet chocolate with a hint of peppermint creates a delicious and festive taste that warms both the body and the soul. This drink is also customizable, allowing you to adjust the sweetness or the level of peppermint based on your preferences.

Moreover, making it in a slow cooker means you can prepare enough for a crowd with ease. Imagine hosting a holiday gathering where everyone can enjoy this delightful beverage! Lastly, the presentation of this drink is as beautiful as its taste. Topped with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, it looks festive and inviting.

HOW TO MAKE Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate

Making Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate is a simple process. With just a few ingredients and the right equipment, you can create something magical. All you need is a slow cooker, and soon, you will be sipping on a deliciously sweet and creamy hot chocolate.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate, you will need the following equipment:

• A 7-qt slow cooker
• A whisk (for stirring)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving mugs

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 cups whole milk
• 1 (14-oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3 cups bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup crème de menthe or vodka (optional)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Sweetened whipped cream, for topping
• Crushed candy canes, for topping

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by getting your 7-quart slow cooker ready.
2. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the 8 cups of whole milk and the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Then, add in the 3 cups of bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips. If you’re using crème de menthe or vodka for an adult version, add that too.
3. Add Flavor: Next, sprinkle in the tablespoon of vanilla extract, the teaspoon of peppermint extract, and the 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to High. Let it cook for about 2 hours. Stir halfway through to help the chocolate melt smoothly.
5. Serve Warm: After 2 hours, switch the slow cooker to keep it warm.
6. Add Toppings: When serving, add some sweetened whipped cream on top of each mug of hot chocolate. Finish with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that festive touch.

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HOW TO SERVE Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate

Pepermint Bark Hot Chocolate is best served immediately while it’s warm. Pour it into your favorite mugs and top it off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. For a special touch, you can rim the mugs with chocolate syrup before adding the hot chocolate and crushed candy cane for an extra holiday flair. This drink is perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or quiet evenings at home with a good book.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate

If you have leftovers or want to make some in advance, you can store Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warm.

However, it’s not recommended to freeze this hot chocolate. Freezing may alter the texture due to the dairy components, which can cause separation upon thawing. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy this hot chocolate fresh or store it in the fridge for a couple of days.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate pairs well with a variety of snacks. Consider serving it alongside:

• Gingerbread cookies
• Peppermint brownies
• Marshmallows
• Biscotti

These treats enhance the experience of sipping hot chocolate and complement the holiday flavors that everyone loves.

VARIATIONS

While the classic Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate is amazing on its own, feel free to get creative! Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Spicy Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for some warmth.
2. Nutty Twist: Stir in some nutella or hazelnut spread for a nutty flavor.
3. Different Chocolates: Use white chocolate chips for a smoother and sweeter drink, or even mix different types of chocolate for a unique flavor.
4. Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Each variation offers a different way to enjoy this delicious drink!

FAQs

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1. Can I make a smaller batch of Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate?
   Yes! You can easily halve the ingredients and use a smaller slow cooker.
2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can make it on the stovetop by following the same instructions. Just heat everything in a large pot over medium heat, stirring until melted and combined.
3. What can I use instead of crème de menthe?
   If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can simply skip that ingredient or use extra peppermint extract for flavor.
4. Can I use less sugar?
   Yes, you can reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or use unsweetened chocolate if you want a less sweet version.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate

To make the process easier, you can prepare some of the ingredients in advance. Measure out the chocolate chips, extracts, and salt before the day you plan to serve the hot chocolate. You can also mix the dry ingredients and store them in a bag.

If you want to save even more time on the day of serving, consider preheating your slow cooker with milk while you get everything else ready. This way, you only need to combine and whisk the mixture together before letting it cook.

Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate is a delightful recipe that brings warmth and joy during the holiday season. Enjoy the festive flavors with friends and family while creating sweet memories together.

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