Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate – Indulge in the ultimate cozy treat with this exquisite dairy-free peppermint hot chocolate recipe! Experience its luxuriously creamy texture and invigorating warm peppermint flavor, perfect for any chilly day.
As the air grows crisper and the festive season approaches, is there anything more comforting than wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of hot chocolate? We believe not! Our exceptional vegan peppermint hot chocolate recipe stands out as a true holiday favorite, offering a delightful twist on a classic comfort drink. It’s not just a beverage; it’s an experience, a moment of pure bliss in a cup.
This isn’t your average hot cocoa from a packet. We’ve crafted a dairy-free masterpiece with a luscious, velvety texture, a deep, rich chocolate foundation, and a bright, refreshing burst of peppermint flavor. What makes it even better? It comes together in under 5 minutes, making it the perfect hassle-free indulgence for those busy holiday evenings or spontaneous cozy moments. Get ready to elevate your hot chocolate game with this easy, yet incredibly satisfying, homemade treat.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how few ingredients are required to create this luxurious drink. Most likely, many of them are already staples in your pantry. We believe in keeping things simple without compromising on taste or quality. This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated steps or an extensive shopping list to enjoy something truly special.
Let’s dive into the delicious details and discover how you can whip up this amazing dairy-free peppermint hot cocoa recipe in no time!
Dairy-Free Peppermint Hot Chocolate, At A Glance:
- Why You’ll Adore This Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Simple Ingredients For Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- How To Make Dairy-Free Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Step By Step
- Our Favorite Toppings For Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- FAQ + Tips For The Best Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- RECIPE:Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- More Chocolate Recipes To Love
Why You’ll Adore This Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Beyond its incredible taste, this vegan peppermint hot chocolate offers a wealth of reasons to make it your go-to holiday drink:
- Effortlessly Dairy-Free: Perfect for those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or following a plant-based diet, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy a rich, creamy hot chocolate without compromise.
- Quick & Easy: With a prep time of just a few minutes, you can satisfy your chocolate cravings almost instantly. No elaborate steps, no specialized equipment – just pure, quick enjoyment.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of deep chocolate and refreshing peppermint is a match made in heaven. We’ve carefully balanced these notes to ensure neither overpowers the other, creating a harmonious and delightful experience.
- Customizable Sweetness & Intensity: You’re in control! Adjust the amount of sweetener and peppermint extract to suit your personal preference, whether you like a subtle hint or a bold kick.
- Warm & Invigorating: The warmth of the chocolate combined with the cool tingle of peppermint creates a uniquely invigorating and comforting sensation, ideal for warming up on a cold day.
- Festive & Fun: This drink is inherently festive, making it a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings, quiet evenings by the fire, or as a special treat for children (and adults!).
- Made with Wholesome Ingredients: Using plant-based milks and real cocoa, you’re enjoying a drink made with more natural ingredients compared to many store-bought mixes.
Here’s What You Need To Make Our Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe:
- Coconut Milk. For that ultimate luxurious, creamy texture and delightful richness that sets this hot chocolate apart, we highly recommend using full-fat canned coconut milk. A little goes a long way in creating a truly decadent mouthfeel. If you use light coconut milk, the final product will be less rich, but still delicious.
- Almond Milk (Or Your Favorite Plant-Based Milk!). To balance the richness of the coconut milk and maintain a more neutral flavor profile, we pair it with unsweetened almond milk. However, feel free to use your preferred plant-based milk – oat milk for extra creaminess, soy milk for a protein boost, or cashew milk for a subtle nutty note. The key is to choose a variety you genuinely enjoy drinking.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder. The secret to a deep, intense chocolate flavor lies in high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Both regular and dark/Dutch-processed cocoa powder work wonderfully here. Dutch-processed cocoa tends to be less acidic and creates a darker, mellower chocolate flavor, while natural cocoa powder offers a sharper, fruitier chocolate note. Invest in the best quality you can afford, as it significantly impacts the final taste. We’re big fans of Guittard, Rodelle, Valrhona, and Ghiradelli for their consistent quality and rich flavor.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan Chocolate Chips or Chopped Chocolate. To amplify the chocolatey richness and create a more well-rounded flavor, we incorporate a small amount of dairy-free chocolate chips or finely chopped vegan chocolate. This addition melts smoothly into the hot cocoa, contributing to its velvety texture and intensifying the chocolate experience. For our top recommendations on vegan chocolate brands, see the special section below!
- Pure Maple Syrup or Granulated Sugar. For sweetening this delightful drink, pure maple syrup is our go-to choice, offering a subtle depth without imparting any discernible “maple-y” taste, contrary to popular belief. It dissolves beautifully and blends seamlessly. Alternatively, regular granulated sugar works just as well. Choose whichever is most convenient for you. While we haven’t personally tested them, you could likely experiment with stevia or other keto-friendly sugar substitutes if those fit your dietary preferences.
- A Tiny Pinch Of Salt. Don’t skip this seemingly minor ingredient! A mere pinch, less than 1/8 teaspoon, makes a world of difference. Salt acts as a flavor enhancer, balancing the sweetness and intensifying the rich chocolate notes. You’ll truly notice its absence if omitted, as it prevents the hot chocolate from tasting flat.
- Vanilla Extract. A touch of vanilla extract is absolutely essential for rounding out the flavors in any good hot chocolate. It adds a beautiful depth and warmth that complements the chocolate and peppermint beautifully. Always use pure vanilla extract for the best results; imitation vanilla will not provide the same rich aroma and taste.
- Peppermint Extract. And finally, to infuse that signature festive zing, we add peppermint extract. The recipe suggests a range of 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon. If you prefer just a subtle hint of cool peppermint, stick with 1/4 teaspoon. For a more pronounced, vibrant peppermint punch – which is our personal favorite for a truly festive experience – go with 1/2 teaspoon or even slightly more, adjusting to your taste.
What Kind Of Chocolate Is Vegan?
Finding delicious dairy-free and vegan chocolate has never been easier, with a growing number of brands committed to plant-based ingredients. Here are some of our top picks, catering to various needs and preferences:
- ENJOY LIFE– This brand is widely available in the U.S. and is fantastic for those with allergies, as it’s free from most common allergens.
- HU KITCHEN – A truly exceptional brand known for its high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients. Their chocolates are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, offering a healthier indulgence. While a bit pricier, the taste and quality are truly worth it!
- ENDANGERED SPECIES – Many of their chocolate bars are proudly certified vegan, making them a reliable choice. You can often find these at popular grocery stores like Sprouts, Target, Natural Grocers, and Whole Foods.
- GUITTARD – A long-standing favorite for many bakers, their dark and semi-sweet chocolate varieties are naturally dairy-free (containing no dairy ingredients). While not always strictly certified vegan (due to potential cross-contamination concerns in shared facilities), they are an excellent option for those comfortable with their ingredient list.
How To Make Dairy-Free Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Step By Step:
- Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan. Begin by gathering your essential ingredients. In a small or medium saucepan, combine the full-fat coconut milk, almond milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, dairy-free chocolate chips, your chosen sweetener (maple syrup or sugar), and that vital pinch of salt. Ensure all ingredients are added to the cold saucepan before heating.
- Gently Melt & Heat for Perfection. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat on your stovetop. With a whisk, gently and continuously stir the mixture. This constant whisking is crucial to prevent the chocolate from sticking and scorching at the bottom of the pan, and to ensure the cocoa powder and chocolate chips dissolve smoothly. Continue to whisk until the mixture is thoroughly hot and steaming, and all the chocolate and cocoa powder have fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky, uniform liquid. IMPORTANT NOTE: The goal is to heat the milk until it’s hot and steaming, but it should never be allowed to simmer or boil vigorously. Boiling can cause plant-based milks to separate or curdle, and it can also scorch the delicate chocolate, leading to a grainy texture and off-flavors. Keep the heat gentle and patient for the creamiest results.
- Finish with Flavor Boosters. Once your hot chocolate is wonderfully warm and smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. This is the perfect moment to stir in the vanilla extract and, of course, the peppermint extract. Adding the extracts at this stage, after removing from heat, helps to preserve their vibrant flavors, as prolonged heating can cause them to dissipate. Give it a taste test, and if desired, add a little more sweetener, vanilla, or peppermint extract to perfectly match your palate.
- Serve with your favorite toppings! Your rich, creamy, and wonderfully aromatic vegan peppermint hot chocolate is now ready to be enjoyed! Carefully pour it into your favorite mugs. This is where the fun begins – garnish generously with your chosen toppings to create a truly personalized and festive beverage. Enjoy every cozy sip!
PRO TIP: We intentionally add the vanilla and peppermint extracts at the very end of the cooking process, after removing the hot chocolate from the heat. The reason for this is simple: extracts are volatile and their delicate flavors can “cook off” or diminish when subjected to simmering or boiling temperatures. While we aim for gentle heating and not boiling this peppermint hot cocoa, adding them post-heat ensures the full integrity and potency of their delicious aromas and tastes are preserved. If you accidentally add them with the other ingredients at the start, don’t worry – it will still taste wonderful, just perhaps with a slightly less intense flavor profile!
Let’s Talk Toppings! Yummy Ways To Top Your Peppermint Hot Chocolate:
No perfect cup of hot chocolate is complete without an array of delightful toppings! These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add layers of texture and flavor, making each sip an adventure. Here are our favorite ways to elevate your vegan peppermint hot chocolate:
- Vegan Marshmallows. Good news! Vegan marshmallows are readily available and incredibly delicious. They melt into a wonderfully gooey layer, adding a classic sweetness and fluffy texture to your cozy drink. Look for brands like Dandies or Trader Joe’s brand for a plant-based option.
- Dairy-Free Whipped Cream. A generous dollop of vegan whipped cream is pure decadence! You can easily make homemade coconut whipped cream for a fresh, natural option. For convenience, several excellent store-bought varieties exist, such as ReddiWip (their almond and coconut milk versions are fantastic), SoDelicious CoCoWhip, or TruWhip.
- Shaved Chocolate. For an elegant touch, finely shaved dairy-free chocolate adds a sophisticated garnish. It slowly melts into the hot chocolate, creating extra pockets of rich chocolate flavor and a beautiful visual appeal. Use a vegetable peeler or fine grater for the best results.
- Crushed Peppermint. To intensify the peppermint experience and add a satisfying crunch, sprinkle some crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top. The vibrant red and white flecks also add a wonderfully festive look, perfect for the holidays.
- Cacao Nibs. If you appreciate a deep, slightly bitter chocolate flavor and a crunchy texture, cacao nibs are an adventurous and healthy topping choice. These unsweetened little pieces of cacao offer a satisfying bite and an intense cocoa flavor that complements the sweetness of the drink. They’re not for everyone, but we certainly love their unique contribution!
- Mini Chocolate Chips. For an undeniably adorable and equally delicious topping, a sprinkle of mini dairy-free chocolate chips is always a hit. They add extra bursts of chocolate and a playful texture that’s hard to resist.
- A Classic Candy Cane! Embrace the spirit of the season by stirring your creamy vegan peppermint hot chocolate with a candy cane. As it dissolves, it adds a gentle, extra layer of peppermint flavor, making it both a stirrer and a delicious treat. Mini or full-size, they’re always a festive choice!
FAQ & Tips For The Best Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate:
We’ve gathered some common questions and essential tips to help you make the absolute best vegan peppermint hot chocolate every single time.
Can I Use Regular Dairy Milk Instead of Plant-Based Milk? Absolutely! If dairy is not a concern for you or your guests, this peppermint hot chocolate recipe can easily be made with your preferred dairy milk. For the creamiest and richest consistency, we recommend using a higher fat percentage milk, such as 2% or whole milk. Just remember that the “vegan” aspect would then be removed from the recipe.
Can I Use All Almond Milk or All Coconut Milk? Yes, you certainly can! However, be aware that the final texture and flavor will differ slightly. If you opt for all almond milk, your hot chocolate will be a bit thinner and less rich. If you use all full-fat coconut milk, it will be significantly thicker and incredibly rich, and you’ll likely notice a more distinct coconut flavor. If you’re a fan of coconut, this could be a delicious variation!
Is All Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Vegan? Yes, traditionally, unsweetened cocoa powder is naturally vegan and dairy-free! It’s derived directly from cocoa beans and doesn’t contain any animal products. However, always double-check ingredient labels, especially for flavored cocoa powders or mixes, to ensure no dairy has been added.
Can You Make Hot Chocolate In Advance? Yes, this vegan peppermint hot chocolate recipe is fantastic for making ahead! It re-heats beautifully and tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. We’ve successfully made, chilled, and reheated batches multiple times on the stovetop or in the microwave. The crucial thing to remember when reheating is to use gentle, low to medium-low heat and stir frequently. This prevents the chocolate from scorching at the bottom of the pan and ensures the milk doesn’t separate or boil, which can compromise the texture.
Could I Make This In A Slow Cooker For A Crowd? While you can technically use a slow cooker, we recommend a specific approach for the best results. This recipe doubles, triples, and quadruples like a dream for larger groups (use the scaling options in the recipe card for easy adjustments!). However, it works best to initially prepare the hot chocolate on the stovetop, ensuring all the chocolate chips and cocoa powder are fully melted and smoothly incorporated. Once it’s ready, transfer the hot chocolate to a slow cooker and keep it on the “WARM” setting for up to 2 hours. This method prevents the chocolate from scorching on the bottom, which can often happen when trying to melt ingredients directly in a slow cooker, and ensures a consistently perfect temperature for serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate? Allow any leftover hot chocolate to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently using the stovetop or microwave instructions mentioned above.
Can I Make This Sugar-Free? If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can absolutely experiment with sugar-free sweeteners. Replace the maple syrup or granulated sugar with your preferred sugar substitute (e.g., erythritol, xylitol, stevia blend) in an equivalent amount according to its instructions. Ensure your dairy-free chocolate chips are also sugar-free to maintain the sugar-free profile. Taste and adjust as needed!
More Cozy Chocolate Recipes To Love:
If you’ve fallen in love with this vegan peppermint hot chocolate, you’ll definitely want to explore these other decadent chocolate creations:
- Gluten-Free Brown Butter Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Gluten-Free Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- (Gluten-Free) Orange Cranberry Chocolate Chunk Cookies
- Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Cookies
WE ♥:
Print
Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews
Author: Sweets And Thank You
Total Time: 8 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Diet: Vegan
Description
This dairy-free peppermint hot chocolate recipe is so warm and cozy! You’ll love the creamy texture and warm peppermint flavor!
Ingredients
For The Vegan Peppermint Hot Chocolate:
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (I prefer full-fat canned coconut milk)
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 Tbsp. dairy-free/vegan chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp. pure maple syrup (or sugar), plus more to taste if needed
- pinch salt (less than 1/8 tsp.)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- mini chocolate chips
- chocolate sauce
- coconut whipped cream or non-dairy whipped cream
- shaved chocolate
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, almond milk, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, maple syrup/sugar, and salt.
- Whisk over medium-low heat until the mixture is hot and the chocolate and cocoa powder are fully melted and dissolved. NOTE: You want the milk steaming, but not simmering or boiling (this can cause the milk to separate and can scorch the chocolate).
- When the hot chocolate is warm enough and smooth, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and peppermint extract. Taste and add more sweetener, vanilla or peppermint, as desired.
- Serve with your favorite toppings!
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American