Peppermint Whiskey Hot Chocolate Cocktail Recipe

When it gets chilly outside, I can’t help but crave a drink that’s warm, cozy, and maybe just a little bit indulgent. Hot chocolate’s always a classic, but honestly, tossing in some whiskey and a splash of peppermint? That’s a whole new level of comfort.

This Peppermint Whiskey Hot Chocolate Cocktail is rich, chocolatey, and just minty enough to feel festive. It’s simple, but somehow it feels like a treat—like you did something special for yourself without a ton of effort.

I love that you don’t need any fancy gadgets or weird ingredients here. It comes together fast, and it’s perfect for a quiet night in or, heck, even sharing with a couple friends. There’s something about the way the sweet, creamy chocolate balances with the bold whiskey and cool mint that just works.

Peppermint Whiskey Hot Chocolate Cocktail Recipe

This is my go-to when I want something warm and sweet, but also a little grown-up. The combo of peppermint schnapps, whiskey, and rich hot chocolate is honestly hard to beat.

It’s cozy, not complicated, and it makes a regular night feel like a mini celebration.

Equipment

• Small saucepan – I use this to warm up the milk or water.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Makes it easier to keep the flavors in check.
• Whisk – Helps get the cocoa powder or mix perfectly smooth.
• Heatproof mug – The bigger, the better, since you’ll want room for toppings.
• Stirring spoon – For mixing in the whiskey and schnapps.
• Optional milk frother – If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll use this for extra creamy cocoa.
• Small ladle – Nice to have if you’re making more than one mug.
• Knife and cutting board – For shaving chocolate or crushing up candy canes.

Honestly, you don’t need much. Just a few basics, and you’re all set.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk (or water if you’re using a hot chocolate mix)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder or 1 packet hot chocolate mix
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz whiskey
• 1 oz Irish cream (totally optional, but good for extra creaminess)
• 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream for topping
• Crushed candy cane or shaved chocolate for garnish

If I’m in the mood for a richer flavor, I’ll grab the cocoa powder, but honestly, a mix is faster. Peppermint schnapps gives it that cool finish, while whiskey brings the warmth. Irish cream? Makes it smooth and a touch sweeter.

Instructions

• Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat. Don’t let it boil—just get it hot.
• Whisk in the cocoa powder or stir in the hot chocolate mix until everything’s smooth.
• Add the chocolate syrup for a little extra sweetness.
• Take it off the heat and pour into your favorite mug.
• Stir in the whiskey, peppermint schnapps, and Irish cream if you’re using it.
• Give it a gentle stir so it’s all mixed.
• Top with whipped cream.
• Finish with crushed candy cane or shaved chocolate.

I always taste before piling on the toppings—sometimes I tweak the schnapps or whiskey by half an ounce, depending on my mood.

Notes

Whole milk is my go-to for creaminess, but almond or oat milk work fine if that’s your thing. For more peppermint kick, I’ll add a few drops of peppermint extract along with the schnapps.

It’s best hot, but I’ve let it chill and poured it over ice for a cold twist. If you have fresh whipped cream, use it—it’s so much better than the canned stuff.

When friends come over, I’ll set out extra garnishes like mini marshmallows, cinnamon, or even a little caramel drizzle. It’s easy to tweak the recipe without losing that perfect balance of chocolate, mint, and whiskey.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the peppermint jumps out immediately. It’s cool and fresh, almost sharp, and it does a nice job balancing out the warmth from the whiskey.

The chocolate’s there too, adding this smooth, creamy base that kind of ties everything together. Honestly, it’s a pretty comforting combo.

I notice the whiskey doesn’t really take over the drink. Instead, it brings this gentle heat that just sort of lingers in the back of my throat.

It makes the whole thing feel cozy, but not in a way that’s too strong or overwhelming. There’s a sort of balance that I really appreciate.

The sweetness doesn’t get heavy, probably because the peppermint keeps things light. I like how the flavors sort of move in layers—first the cool mint, then the richer chocolate, and finally that soft, warming finish from the whiskey.

The texture’s pretty silky, especially if I go for a little whipped cream on top. And if I’m feeling festive, a sprinkle of crushed candy cane adds a bit of crunch, which just makes each sip a little more interesting.

Flavor Highlights:

• Cool peppermint at the start
• Rich chocolate in the middle
• Warm whiskey finish at the end