Name: Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 7 min
Ingredients: 2 cups milk; 3.5 oz white chocolate (broken into small pieces); ¼ tsp peppermint extract; whipped cream (optional topping); crushed peppermint candy (optional topping)

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There’s something magical about hot chocolate during the winter months, and when it comes to the ultimate treat, nothing beats the cozy flavor of Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate. I still remember the first time I discovered this delicious drink at Starbucks while holiday shopping. The aroma of peppermint wafting through the café filled me with warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of festive gatherings and chilly evenings by the fire. I couldn’t resist indulging in a cup, and as soon as I took that first sip, the creamy sweetness and refreshing mint danced on my taste buds. It was pure bliss! That moment inspired me to recreate this delightful drink at home, so I can enjoy it anytime I crave something sweet and comforting.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
7 mins

Prep Time:
2 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
8 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon

Why We Love This Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Warmth of White Chocolate

The foundation of this recipe is the rich and creamy white chocolate. Unlike regular hot chocolate, white chocolate gives a smooth and luxurious texture that melts beautifully in warm milk, creating a velvety experience that’s hard to resist.

Refreshing Peppermint Flavor

What truly makes Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate special is the invigorating hint of peppermint. It’s a flavor that instantly transforms this drink into a festive delight, turning every sip into a refreshing escape.

Easy to Make

Unlike some complex recipes that require special equipment, this version is incredibly easy to whip up in just a few minutes. With just a saucepan and a few basic ingredients, anyone can create this indulgent treat at home, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings.

Customizable Toppings

Another reason I love this drink is its versatility. You can top it with whipped cream, sprinkle on some crushed peppermint candy, or even add a drizzle of chocolate. The toppings allow everyone to personalize their drink, making it a fun experience.

Perfect for Celebrations

This hot chocolate isn’t just for cold winter nights; it’s also perfect for celebrations! Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy evening with friends, serving up cups of Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate will surely impress your guests.

A Personal Favorite

Lastly, this recipe holds a personal note for me. It brings back fond memories of laughter and joy shared with loved ones during the holiday season. Each cup invites me to pause and enjoy the moment, making it a cherished ritual in my home.

Main Ingredients for Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

The ingredients for Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate blend together beautifully to create a rich, creamy beverage. The star of the show is undoubtedly the white chocolate, which contributes to the drink’s decadent sweetness. Combined with milk, this creates a base that’s not only comforting but also indulgent. The addition of peppermint extract elevates the drink, giving it that fresh, minty kick that pairs so well with the sweetness of the chocolate. Finally, you can customize your hot chocolate with toppings like whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy for an extra festive touch.

2 cups reduced fat or whole milk: The base of this drink, providing creaminess and richness.
3.5 oz white chocolate: This sweet chocolate melts into the milk, creating a luxurious flavor.
¼ tsp peppermint extract: Just a hint of this extract adds refreshing mint flavor.
Whipped cream, crushed peppermint candy: Optional toppings that add texture and festive flair.

Step by Step Instructions for Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Making Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is a breeze, and I love how quickly it comes together! Follow these easy steps to create a delightful drink that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the process!

Begin by gathering your ingredients: milk, white chocolate, and peppermint extract. This is the perfect time to ensure everything is within reach, so you can easily whip up this drink.
In a small saucepan, pour in the milk and add the white chocolate pieces. Turn the heat to medium-low and gently stir the mixture. You want to heat it slowly to avoid boiling, which can scald the milk.
Watch carefully as the milk warms up. You’ll notice the white chocolate beginning to melt and blend seamlessly into the milk. Stir occasionally, ensuring everything is well combined.
Once the milk is hot and the white chocolate has melted completely, remove the saucepan from the heat. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with a lovely sweet aroma.
Now it’s time to add the magic! Stir in the peppermint extract gently. This will infuse the entire drink with that wonderful minty flavor. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way!
Next, it’s time to serve. Grab your favorite mugs and divide the hot chocolate evenly between them. You can already see the rich, creamy texture that promises indulgence.
To top off your Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate, add a generous swirl of whipped cream on each cup. This is where the magic happens, transforming a simple drink into a festive masterpiece.
If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle some crushed peppermint candy over the whipped cream. The crunch and flavor will elevate your hot chocolate to the next level!
Finally, take a moment to admire your creation. The vibrant colors and textures are almost too beautiful to drink. But trust me, you’ll want to dive in!
Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the warmth and joy that comes with every sip of your homemade Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate.

Things Worth Knowing

Milk Temperature: Ensure your milk is heated to just below boiling to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth texture.
White Chocolate Quality: Use high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor; avoid chips as they may not melt smoothly.
Peppermint Strength: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your personal preference for mint; start small!
Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding chocolate shavings, a drizzle of caramel, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for variety.

Tips and Tricks about Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Here are some handy tips to make your Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate even better! Whether you’re looking to enhance flavors or improve your technique, these tips will elevate your drink.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the hot chocolate in ice cube trays for a fun addition to cold beverages.
Pairing: This hot chocolate pairs perfectly with holiday cookies, gingerbread, or even a slice of rich chocolate cake.
Flavor Variations: Consider adding a splash of caramel or toffee syrup to create a caramel peppermint version!
Serving Suggestions: For an adult twist, serve your hot chocolate with a shot of espresso for a peppermint mocha.
Presentation: Invest in some festive mugs to make serving even more special during the holiday season.

What Complements This Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

This delightful drink is perfect for various occasions and pairs well with several delicious options. Here are some ideas to enhance your experience:

Serve with Cookies: Enjoy your Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate alongside sugar cookies or peppermint bark for a festive touch.
Holiday Parties: This drink is a hit at holiday gatherings, making it a great addition to any festive spread.
Cozy Evenings: Perfect for a quiet night in, sip this hot chocolate while watching your favorite holiday movie.
Brunch Treat: Serve this alongside brunch favorites like pancakes or waffles for a sweet start to the day.
Seasonal Use: While delicious in winter, it’s also great for holiday events in early spring.
Gift Idea: Package the ingredients in a jar with a cute label for a thoughtful homemade gift.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the hot chocolate mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove before serving, as it thickens a bit when chilled. This makes it perfect for holiday parties or cozy evenings in.

For a non-dairy version of Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate, simply substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond milk or oat milk. Just be sure to choose a creamy variety for the best texture and flavor!

If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding a little extra melted white chocolate or even a splash of chocolate syrup to intensify the chocolate flavor. This will give your hot chocolate an even richer taste.

Yes! To make an iced version of Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate, you can prepare the drink as directed and then let it cool. Pour it over ice and add the whipped cream and toppings afterward. It’s a refreshing twist for warmer days!

Conclusion

This Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is truly a winter delight that captures all the festive flavors of the season. It’s an easy-to-make drink that brings warmth and joy, perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, indulge in the creamy goodness, and make it a cherished part of your holiday traditions. You won’t regret it—every sip is like a warm hug in a mug!

Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

The ultimate comfort drink for winter! This Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate is creamy, refreshing, and perfect for the holidays. Recreate this easy weeknight treat at home and indulge in the festive flavors!

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Prep Time 2

Cook Time 5

Total Time 7

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

Frying Pan
Large Pot
Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

2 cups milk
3.5 oz white chocolate broken into small pieces
¼ tsp peppermint extract
whipped cream optional topping
crushed peppermint candy optional topping

Instructions

Begin by gathering your ingredients: milk, white chocolate, and peppermint extract. This is the perfect time to ensure everything is within reach, so you can easily whip up this drink.
In a small saucepan, pour in the milk and add the white chocolate pieces. Turn the heat to medium-low and gently stir the mixture. You want to heat it slowly to avoid boiling, which can scald the milk.
Watch carefully as the milk warms up. You’ll notice the white chocolate beginning to melt and blend seamlessly into the milk. Stir occasionally, ensuring everything is well combined.
Once the milk is hot and the white chocolate has melted completely, remove the saucepan from the heat. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with a lovely sweet aroma.
Now it’s time to add the magic! Stir in the peppermint extract gently. This will infuse the entire drink with that wonderful minty flavor. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way!
Next, it’s time to serve. Grab your favorite mugs and divide the hot chocolate evenly between them. You can already see the rich, creamy texture that promises indulgence.
To top off your Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate, add a generous swirl of whipped cream on each cup. This is where the magic happens, transforming a simple drink into a festive masterpiece.
If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle some crushed peppermint candy over the whipped cream. The crunch and flavor will elevate your hot chocolate to the next level!
Finally, take a moment to admire your creation. The vibrant colors and textures are almost too beautiful to drink. But trust me, you’ll want to dive in!
Serve immediately while it's hot and enjoy the warmth and joy that comes with every sip of your homemade Copycat Starbucks Peppermint White Hot Chocolate.

Notes

Tip 1: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Tip 2: While it's best fresh, you can freeze the hot chocolate in ice cube trays for a fun addition to cold beverages.
Tip 3: This hot chocolate pairs perfectly with holiday cookies, gingerbread, or even a slice of rich chocolate cake.
Tip 4: Consider adding a splash of caramel or toffee syrup to create a caramel peppermint version!
Tip 5: Invest in some festive mugs to make serving even more special during the holiday season.