Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Schnapps Cocktail Recipe

Nothing really beats a hot mug of chocolate when the weather turns cold, right? If you add a splash of peppermint schnapps, though, it just feels a little more magical.

This cocktail is all about rich cocoa, cool peppermint, and a bit of Irish cream for that extra cozy vibe. It’s not complicated, and chances are, you’ve already got most of what you need in your kitchen.

I love making this after dinner, especially when I want something sweet and smooth that’s got a gentle kick. The peppermint cuts through the richness of the chocolate, and the Irish cream makes everything velvety.

It’s just the thing for winding down by the fire or sharing with friends during the holidays. There’s something about it that feels both comforting and a little bit festive.

Let’s get into what you’ll need and how to whip it up—honestly, you could be sipping this tonight.

Hot Chocolate And Peppermint Schnapps Cocktail Recipe

I tend to crave this drink on cold evenings when I want something warm but with a little excitement. The combination of hot chocolate and minty schnapps is just so satisfying.

It’s quick to make and you can easily scale it up if you’ve got company.

Equipment

• Small saucepan – heats the milk or hot chocolate base evenly.
• Whisk or spoon – for stirring and getting everything dissolved.
• Measuring cups – helps you get the milk, cocoa, and schnapps just right.
• Measuring spoons – for sugar or any extra flavors.
• Mug – needs to be heat-safe and roomy enough for toppings.
• Ladle – handy if you’re making more than one serving.
• Heatproof stirring stick – optional, but kind of nice for mixing in the mug.

I reach for a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid burnt milk. Ceramic or thick glass mugs are great because they keep the drink warmer for longer.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, your call)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or hot chocolate mix
• 1–2 teaspoons sugar (sweeten to your liking)
• 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
• Whipped cream for topping
• Mini marshmallows (if you’re feeling it)
• Crushed candy cane (for a little extra flair)

Whole milk gives you the creamiest result, but almond or oat milk are good too. I’m careful with the schnapps—too much and it can get overpowering.

Instructions

• Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s hot, but don’t let it boil.
• Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until you’ve got a smooth mix.
• Take it off the heat and stir in the peppermint schnapps.
• Pour everything into your favorite mug.
• Top with whipped cream.
• Toss on some mini marshmallows if you’re in the mood.
• Sprinkle crushed candy cane for a little crunch and extra mint.

I try to avoid boiling the milk—otherwise, you end up with that weird skin on top. Stirring well is key so the cocoa isn’t clumpy.

Notes

For me, 1 ounce of peppermint schnapps is just right—not too boozy, not too minty. If you want more kick, add a bit, but taste as you go so it doesn’t take over.

If you want a non-alcoholic version, swap in peppermint extract. Just a tiny bit—like 1/8 teaspoon—does the trick, and you can add more if you want.

If you’re making a batch for a group, just multiply the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker set to low. That way, everyone can help themselves and the flavors get even better.

Fresh whipped cream is a bit of a treat compared to the canned stuff, honestly. Sometimes I’ll dust a little cocoa powder over the top for a simple finish.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the rich chocolate flavor jumps out at me right away. It’s smooth and creamy—just the right amount of sweetness, honestly, and it feels pretty comforting.

The peppermint schnapps brings this cool, minty edge that I really like. It’s subtle, not overpowering, but it still cuts through the richness of the hot chocolate and keeps things from getting too heavy.

I love how the warmth of the drink mixes with that crisp mint. The heat carries the aroma, so I get this nice mix of chocolate and peppermint even before I taste it.

The balance just works for me. The chocolate takes center stage, and the peppermint lifts it up without ever stealing the show.

As the drink cools a bit, the flavors start to blend together more. The peppermint softens, almost like it’s melting right into the chocolate.

I like to sip it slowly and notice how the flavor changes as it cools. It kind of makes the whole thing feel extra cozy and relaxing.

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