Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate

Cold nights always make me reach for a warm drink, and this one feels like the kind that settles you in right away. The first time I mixed a Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate, I remember sitting near my small kitchen window while the cold pressed against the glass. The peppermint lifted the chocolate in a way that felt simple and soothing. I still make it when I want a break from the rush of long days.

I like how this drink fits moments that call for a little comfort. Sometimes I mix it after late errands when my hands are still cold from holding grocery bags. Other times, I share it with friends who stop by after dinner. They always say the same thing. It tastes familiar but still feels new. Maybe it’s the way the mint cuts through the warm cocoa or how the mug feels good to hold.

The Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate is easy to mix and works for casual nights, small gatherings, or slow mornings when the house is still. It’s the kind of drink people ask for again once they’ve had it. I love that it brings a bit of holiday spirit without needing anything fancy. Just a few ingredients, a warm mug, and a quiet moment to enjoy it.

Why You’ll Love This

This drink offers the comfort of warm cocoa with a refreshing mint finish, brightening cold days. It’s perfect for when you need a quick, easy treat that soothes and lifts your spirits after a tiring day.

• Warm chocolate with a clean mint lift
• Easy to make with basic ingredients
• Great for holidays or quiet evenings
• Works for single servings or groups
• Pretty garnishes for guests
• Smooth flavor that doesn’t feel heavy

It’s the kind of drink you come back to when you want something soothing.

Ingredients

This drink stays simple, so each flavor stands out. The blend of warm chocolate and mint works well to balance a Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate, and the added coffee adds depth without making it bitter.

You’ll need

• 1.5 ounces Smirnoff Peppermint Twist Vodka
• 2 ounces hot coffee
• 2 ounces hot chocolate
• 1 ounce crème de cacao
• whipped cream for garnish
• candy cane for garnish

The vodka adds a clean mintiness that pairs well with cocoa. The coffee adds warmth and keeps the drink from feeling too sweet. The crème de cacao adds soft chocolate flavor. The whipped cream and candy cane give it a fun finish that feels right for winter nights.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

A few brands help keep the drink smooth. These options stay close to the recipe without shifting the flavor too far.

• Smirnoff Peppermint Twist has a steady mint taste that blends well.
• Veil Peppermint Vodka works if you want a lighter mint note.
• Ghirardelli crème de cacao adds a deeper cocoa layer.
• If you don’t have crème de cacao, a chocolate liqueur works fine.
• Any hot chocolate mix with real cocoa tastes best.
• A higher proof vodka works if you want a stronger drink, but keep the same amount.

Pick the mix that matches how bold or soft you want the flavor to be.

Equipment and Glassware

You don’t need much here. A simple heatproof mug works best because it keeps the drink warm.

• Mug
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon

You can warm the mug with hot water first so the drink stays hot longer. If you like a softer texture, froth your hot chocolate before mixing, and it’ll feel silky when you sip it.

How to Make It

This Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate is easy to mix. It’s great when you want something warm without extra steps.

1. Add the crème de cacao and peppermint vodka to a heatproof mug.
2. Pour in the hot coffee.
3. Pour in the hot chocolate.
4. Stir gently until the flavors blend.
5. Add whipped cream and a candy cane.
6. Serve while it’s warm.

You can tweak the balance by using darker cocoa for less sweetness or stronger coffee for more depth.

Pro Tips

These small tricks make the drink smoother and more balanced.

• Warm your mug so the drink stays hot longer.
• Brew fresh coffee for the best taste.
• Use rich hot chocolate so the mint doesn’t take over.
• Stir lightly to keep the heat steady.
• Crush the candy cane for a soft crunch.
• Try homemade whipped cream for a lighter top.
• Reduce the vodka slightly if you want a mild mint taste.
• Add chocolate shavings for a deeper aroma.

These small touches help you shape the drink the way you like it

Variations

A few small changes can shift the flavor while keeping the drink warm and soothing.

• Use white hot chocolate for a sweet finish.
• Add Irish cream for a richer mix.
• Add a drop of vanilla extract for a softer taste.
• Swap the coffee for espresso for a stronger base.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a light winter note.

These simple changes keep the drink interesting.

When to Serve and Pairings

This drink fits cold nights, slow mornings, or holiday get-togethers. It pairs well with winter treats and simple desserts.

Try pairing it with

• Chocolate chip cookies
• Brownies
• Cheesecake
• Peppermint bark
• Soft sugar cookies

Anything with chocolate or mint plays well with the warm flavor.

Storage and Serving Notes

The drink tastes best right after mixing, but you can batch the vodka and crème de cacao ahead of time. Store that mix in the fridge for up to two days. Warm it, then add hot coffee and hot chocolate when you serve your Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate. Add garnishes at the end to keep them fresh and light.

FAQs

Here are a few common questions that come up when mixing the Peppermint Vodka Hot Chocolate

Can I make this without coffee?
Yes. Replace the coffee with more hot chocolate. It’ll taste sweeter and softer.

Can I make it kid-friendly?
Leave out the vodka and crème de cacao. Add more hot chocolate and a tiny amount of peppermint extract. Keep the extract light.

Can I make a dairy-free version?
Use dairy-free hot chocolate and plant-based whipped topping. It still tastes smooth.

Can I use another vodka flavor?
Vanilla vodka works if you want a softer taste. It won’t taste minty, but it still feels warm.

Can I make a stronger version?
Add no more than a half ounce extra vodka so the mint doesn’t overpower the cocoa.

Can I make a large batch for guests?
Yes. Mix the vodka and crème de cacao in advance. Warm it and add the hot liquids right before serving.

More Cocktails to Try

If you like warm drinks or winter flavors, here are a few cocktails that always fit the season.

• Peppermint White Russian with a gentle mint twist
• Irish Coffee with whiskey and warm coffee
• White Chocolate Martini with soft cocoa flavor
• Hot Buttered Rum with a sweet and cozy finish
• Chocolate Espresso Martini for a strong coffee kick