Peppermint Hot Chocolate

This healthy peppermint hot chocolate is festive, cozy, and packed with antioxidants—perfect for winter mornings, holiday gatherings, or a nourishing late-morning treat. With two ways to prepare it—using peppermint extract or peppermint tea—you can easily tailor it to your taste and lifestyle.

Peppermint and chocolate are a timeless pairing that’s nostalgic, soothing, and refreshing. Healthier than any store-bought mix, this version uses raw cacao powder for its mood-boosting theobromine, collagen for an optional protein boost, and plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free.

Personally, I love sipping peppermint hot chocolate after breakfast for a bit of focus without the jitters. It’s also become a holiday season staple. I swear it tastes even better when Michael Bublé’s Christmas album is playing softly in the living room—but you’ll have to try it and let me know. 😉

There are two ways to make it:

• The quick and classic method uses peppermint extract. Just be sure to measure carefully! Too much, and it’ll go from liquid dessert to mouthwash.
• The herbal method uses peppermint tea (or spearmint, if you prefer). Tea adds a softer, earthy undertone and some added health benefits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive flavor that feels indulgent
• Great source of antioxidants, healthy fats, a little fiber, and protein
• Zero added sugar (unless you add it, of course)
• Quick and easy to make for one—or scale it for the whole family
• Two simple methods—choose what works for you
• A small amount of caffeine gives you an energy boost for improved focus without hijacking your nervous system

Is Peppermint Hot Chocolate Healthy?

Yes, this version certainly is!

Most store-bought hot chocolate mixes use alkalized cocoa, which may have fewer antioxidants due to processing. They’re also full of refined sugar, conventional dairy powders, and often contain artificial flavors.

However, this homemade peppermint hot chocolate recipe is the opposite. It’s made with raw cacao, so it contains antioxidants, polyphenols, and minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

With a small amount of naturally occurring caffeine and theobromine, it also offers a gentle energy boost. Try it before a workout or when you need to focus.

Paired with your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk and a natural, no-calorie sweetener, this peppermint hot chocolate tastes like dessert—without spiking your blood sugar.

Peppermint may also support digestion and help relieve headaches, among other potential benefits.

Note: Both peppermint and chocolate can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Be mindful if you’re prone to acid reflux (or try a Coconut Milk Matcha Latte instead).

Ingredients

Peppermint Options (Choose 1)

• PEPPERMINT EXTRACT – For that crisp, fresh minty flavor. I get mine from Savory Spice.
• PEPPERMINT TEA – Brings an earthy, herbal tone that’s softer than extract. I like Yogi for its smooth flavor.

Additional Ingredients

• RAW CACAO POWDER – Rich in antioxidants, fiber, minerals, and plant-based protein. I get mine from Thrive Market. [Enjoy 40% off your first box with my link.]
• UNSWEETENED NON-DAIRY MILK – I prefer concentrated almond or cashew milk from Elmhurst or Three Trees. If using regular watered-down milk (like most grocery store options), feel free to use 100% milk for a creamier beverage using the extract method.
• HOT WATER –For steeping the tea and balancing richness if you’re using a concentrated nut milk. I don’t recommend steeping the tea in milk; it’s not as flavorful.
• SWEETENER OF CHOICE – I like liquid stevia or Pure Liquid Monk Fruit Drops for a natural, no-calorie, zero-glycemic option. It keeps my blood sugar and mood stable. Regular sugar works too.
• COLLAGEN PEPTIDES (OPTIONAL)– Unflavored collagen adds extra protein to make this more satisfying as a snack. Chocolate-flavored peptides are another option.

Flavor Variations

Make it extra creamy – If using standard non-dairy milk, skip the water and use 100% milk for the extract method.

Double mint – For the tea-infused version, use two tea bags or combine peppermint and spearmint for extra minty flavor.

Spearmint tea – Slightly sweeter and gentler than peppermint for a milder version.

Top with whipped cream – Add a swirl to the top if you’re not dairy-free. Or try a dollop of Coconut Whipped Cream for a vegan twist. Add crushed candy canes if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate

You can make this tasty treat two ways—with peppermint extract or peppermint tea. Either way, you’ll need a large mug.

With Peppermint Extract

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the water and milk (or all milk) 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. For a latte consistency, gently warm the milk on the stovetop until it begins to foam, then pour it over the tea. Otherwise, pour it directly into the tea—or skip the milk altogether for a lighter drink.
4. Sweeten to taste and enjoy!

Tips

• 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.

FAQs

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