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–+ servings
A mug of candy cane cocoa topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint, with candy canes beside it.

Candy Cane Cocoa

This Candy Cane Cocoa is a perfect holiday drink that combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint, creating a festive beverage that's creamy, smooth, and just the right amount of minty. Ideal for cozy evenings, this easy recipe can be customized with different milk, chocolate, and sweetener options.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cocoa Base:
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Can substitute with dairy-free options
  • 2 tablespoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder For a rich cocoa flavor
  • 2 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Adjust sweetness as per preference
  • ¼ teaspoon Peppermint Extract Start with a small amount adjust to taste
  • Pinch Salt Enhances flavors
  • ¼ cup Chocolate Chips Adds smoothness and richness
For Toppings:
  • To taste Whipped Cream Optional, but adds richness
  • To taste Crushed Candy Canes Add for a festive touch
  • To taste Mini Marshmallows Optional topping
  • To taste Chocolate Drizzle For a fancy touch
  • 1 Whole Candy Cane Stirrer for minty flavor infusion

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mugs
  • Zip-top bag and rolling pin for crushing candy

Method
 

  1. Whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat until combined. Add about ¼ cup of milk and whisk to form a smooth paste. Gradually add the rest of the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Once tiny bubbles form, lower the heat and add chocolate chips. Stir until melted and the cocoa becomes smooth.
  3. Remove from heat, then stir in peppermint extract. Start with ¼ teaspoon and taste. Add more extract if needed for balance.
  4. For a frothy topping, blend the cocoa for 30 seconds. If you don’t have a blender, vigorously whisk for 1 minute.
  5. Pour cocoa into a mug and top with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, chocolate drizzle, and a whole candy cane for stirring.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup (240g)Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 7gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes

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