Ingredients
Hot Cocoa
- 2 cups almond milk
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
- 2 tbsp dairy-free dark chocolate chips
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/8 tsp peppermint extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
Coconut Whipped Cream
- 1 can heavy coconut cream, chilled overnight
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
Toppings
- Crushed candy cane
- Shaved dark chocolate
Instructions
- Chill Coconut Cream: Place your canned coconut cream in the fridge overnight to chill. For best results, freeze a metal bowl or your stand mixer bowl for 30-60 minutes before whipping.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: Open the chilled can and scoop out only the thickened cream at the top, discarding the liquid. Add the thickened cream to the chilled bowl. Whisk on high speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy. If desired, add vanilla extract and maple syrup, then whisk briefly again. Set aside.
- Heat Milk: In a small pot over medium heat, warm the almond milk until hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Mix Cocoa Base: Whisk in the cacao powder into the hot milk until the mixture becomes frothy and evenly combined.
- Add Flavors: Stir in the dairy-free dark chocolate chips, peppermint extract, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon. Whisk continuously for 30-60 seconds until the chocolate chips have melted and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Serve: Pour the peppermint hot cocoa into a mug. Top generously with the homemade coconut whipped cream, then sprinkle crushed candy cane and shaved dark chocolate on top for garnish and extra flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the coconut cream is well chilled for the best whipped cream texture.
- Adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your preferred sweetness.
- Use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the drink vegan-friendly.
- Crushed candy cane adds a nice peppermint crunch and visual appeal, but can be omitted if unavailable.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan