Description
This festive, dairy-free peppermint hot chocolate is made with raw cacao and your choice of peppermint extract or herbal tea. It’s a healthy dessert beverage that’s easy to make using either method. Add collagen peptides for an optional protein boost. For another variation, try my Healthy Hot Chocolate with Ginger next!
Ingredients
WITH PEPPERMINT EXTRACT:
1 cup hot water (not boiling) *see note
3/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 scoop unflavored collagen peptides (optional)
Sweetener of choice
WITH PEPPERMINT TEA:
1 cup boiling water
1 peppermint tea bag
1 tablespoon cacao powder
3/4 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (optional)
1 scoop unflavored collagen peptides (optional)
Sweetener of choice
Instructions
WITH PEPPERMINT EXTRACT
1. Warm the water and milk (or all milk) in a small saucepan over medium heat until small bubbles form (don’t let it boil).
2. Whisk in the cacao powder, peppermint extract, and collagen peptides (if using).
3. Sweeten to taste.
4. Pour into your favorite mug and top with optional whipped cream or a candy cane if you’re feeling festive.
WITH PEPPERMINT TEA
1. Steep 1 peppermint tea bag in boiling water for 7-10 minutes. Remove and discard the tea bag.
2. Whisk in the cacao powder and collagen peptides (optional).
3. Gently warm the milk on the stovetop until it begins to foam, then pour it over the tea for a latte consistency. Otherwise, pour it directly into the tea (or skip the milk altogether for a lighter drink).
4. Sweeten to taste and enjoy!
Notes
- I use water and concentrated almond milk (from Elmhurst). If your non-dairy milk is already diluted (like most store-bought options), you can use 100% milk for a creamier result. However, I do recommend steeping the tea in water for optimum flavor.
- Don’t steep peppermint tea longer than 10 minutes, or it may become bitter.
- Stir occasionally between sips to prevent the cacao from settling.
- Use a handheld latte frother (or matcha frother) to blend the collagen and cacao for a smoother texture with extra foam.
