Spirited Peppermint Cocoa Recipe - Delicious Hot Cocoa with Peppermint Schnapps

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa Recipe - Delicious Hot Cocoa with Peppermint Schnapps
| Servings: 4

Introduction

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa
Spirited Peppermint Cocoa

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa is a delightful and cozy drink that combines the rich flavors of cocoa with a hint of refreshing peppermint schnapps. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter day or as a festive treat during the holiday season.

History

The combination of peppermint and cocoa has been a popular flavor pairing for centuries. Peppermint has long been used for its soothing and refreshing properties, while cocoa has been enjoyed for its rich and indulgent taste. The addition of peppermint schnapps to hot cocoa adds a fun and spirited twist to this classic drink.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and cocoa, stirring well.
  2. Stir in water and bring to a boil.
  3. Add milk and reduce heat to medium.
  4. Cook, stirring constantly, until thoroughly heated.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in schnapps and vanilla.
  6. Using an electric mixer, beat at medium speed until frothy.
  7. Serve immediately.

Variations

  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the peppermint schnapps and increase the amount of vanilla extract to taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the cocoa and sugar mixture well to ensure that it is fully combined before adding the water.

- When adding the milk, be sure to reduce the heat to medium to prevent scorching.

- For a frothier texture, use an electric mixer to beat the cocoa mixture until frothy before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spirited Peppermint Cocoa hot in mugs topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or crushed peppermint candies.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to stir constantly while heating the cocoa mixture to prevent scorching.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of milk in place of skim milk, but keep in mind that this will affect the overall nutrition information of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spirited Peppermint Cocoa in festive mugs with a candy cane stirrer for a fun and festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa pairs well with a variety of sweet treats, such as cookies, brownies, or chocolate truffles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spirited Peppermint Cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spirited Peppermint Cocoa contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spirited Peppermint Cocoa contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spirited Peppermint Cocoa contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Spirited Peppermint Cocoa contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, thanks to the addition of skim milk.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of skim milk.

Summary

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa is a delicious and indulgent treat that is relatively low in fat and calories. It is a good source of protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spirited Peppermint Cocoa is a delicious and festive drink that combines the rich flavors of cocoa with a hint of refreshing peppermint schnapps. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat during the holiday season.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Spirited Peppermint Cocoa. It was a cold winter evening, with snow gently falling outside, and I was searching for a warm and comforting drink to cozy up with by the fireplace. As I rummaged through my collection of cookbooks, I stumbled upon a tattered old recipe card tucked away in the back of one of my favorite books. The faded writing on the card caught my eye, and I knew I had to give it a try.

The recipe had been given to me years ago by a dear friend, who had learned it from her grandmother. It was a family secret, passed down through generations, and I felt honored to have been entrusted with it. The ingredients were simple yet intriguing - rich cocoa powder, creamy milk, a splash of peppermint extract, and a generous pour of peppermint schnapps. It sounded like the perfect combination of flavors to warm me up on that chilly night.

I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my cozy kitchen, the aroma of chocolate and peppermint filling the air. As I stirred the cocoa and milk together on the stovetop, I couldn't help but think back to all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother, learning her recipes and techniques. She had been my greatest inspiration when it came to cooking, and I could still hear her gentle voice guiding me as I prepared the Spirited Peppermint Cocoa.

Once the cocoa was ready, I poured it into a mug and added a dollop of whipped cream on top, sprinkling it with crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch. I took a sip, and the flavors exploded on my taste buds - rich and decadent chocolate mingling with the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint. The addition of the peppermint schnapps gave it a subtle kick, warming me from the inside out.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my collection, a go-to drink for cold winter nights and holiday gatherings. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, passing on the tradition of the Spirited Peppermint Cocoa to the next generation.

As I sat by the fire, savoring every sip of the delicious drink, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that had shaped me into the cook I was today. Cooking had always been more than just a hobby for me - it was a way to connect with my past, to honor the legacy of those who had come before me. And in that moment, as I enjoyed my Spirited Peppermint Cocoa, I felt a deep sense of pride in carrying on the culinary traditions of my family.

So here's to the timeless recipes that bring us together, to the stories and memories that they hold, and to the joy of sharing good food with the ones we love. May the Spirited Peppermint Cocoa warm your heart and soul, just as it has warmed mine. Cheers to good food, good company, and the simple pleasures that make life truly delicious.

Categories

| Cathy's Recipes | Cocoa Recipes | Hot Chocolate And Cocoa Recipes | Non-fat Milk Recipes | Peppermint Schnapps Drink Recipes |

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