This fun Grinch Hot Chocolate is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit! It’s a creamy, minty treat topped with whipped cream and red sprinkles, making it a festive delight.
You’ll love how this drink brings a smile to your face! I usually have a cup while watching my favorite holiday movie. Who can resist such a cheerful drink? 🎄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use skim milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, though this might change the flavor slightly.
White Chocolate Chips: These add sweetness and creaminess. If you can’t find them, white chocolate bars can be chopped up instead. For a less sweet option, consider using dark chocolate chips with a little extra sugar.
Peppermint Extract: This is crucial for that festive minty taste! If you’re out of peppermint extract, you might use a small amount of peppermint candy crushed into the hot chocolate or a drop of vanilla extract for a different flavor.
Green Food Coloring: This is what makes it the Grinch! You can use gel food coloring for more vibrancy, or if you prefer natural options, spirulina powder can achieve a green hue.
How Can I Make Sure My Hot Chocolate is Extra Creamy?
The secret to a creamy hot chocolate lies in how you heat the milk and combine your ingredients. Always use medium-low heat to avoid scalding the milk. If the milk boils, it may develop a film and alter the taste. Here are tips for the perfect mix:
- Warm the milk gently and watch closely until it’s steaming but not boiling.
- Stir continuously when adding chocolate chips and spreads to help them melt evenly into the milk.
Also, for a richer hot chocolate, consider adding a dash of heavy cream or half-and-half alongside your milk. This makes it even creamier!
How to Make Grinch Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon white chocolate spread (or white chocolate melting wafers)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (a few drops, to achieve a vibrant green)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Red sanding sugar or edible red sprinkles, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grinch Hot Chocolate takes about 10 minutes to prepare and is perfect for cozying up on a cold day. You’ll spend a few minutes warming the milk and mixing in the ingredients, then just enjoy the festive result!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Milk:
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, gently warm the milk until it is hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
2. Add the White Chocolate:
Once the milk is hot, add in the white chocolate chips and white chocolate spread. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and everything is well combined.
3. Flavor and Color:
Stir in the peppermint extract for a refreshing taste. Add a few drops of green food coloring and mix well until the mixture turns a bright and cheerful green. You can adjust the color by adding more drops if desired!
4. Pour into Mugs:
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully pour the vibrant hot chocolate into festive glass mugs, leaving a bit of room at the top for the toppings.
5. Add the Toppings:
Top each mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream, creating a fluffy cloud. Sprinkle mini marshmallows on the whipped cream for an extra treat!
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Finish off the creation by drizzling some chocolate syrup over the top and sprinkling with red sanding sugar or edible red sprinkles for that festive touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Grinch Hot Chocolate immediately and enjoy every tasty sip while spreading some holiday cheer!
Can I Use Dairy Alternatives for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap whole milk with non-dairy options like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess of the hot chocolate.
How Do I Thicken My Grinch Hot Chocolate?
If you’d like a thicker hot chocolate, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold milk before heating. Alternatively, you can also increase the amount of white chocolate you use to give it a richer, creamier texture.
How to Store Leftover Grinch Hot Chocolate?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to get it back to that creamy goodness!
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the base hot chocolate in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve and top with whipped cream and sprinkles right before enjoying for the best presentation!