Delicious Peppermint Bark Drink Recipe

Introduction

Have you ever wished for a warm, comforting drink that perfectly captures the festive spirit of the holiday season? If so, you’re in for a treat with the peppermint bark drink recipe for cozy nights. This indulgent beverage blends the nostalgic flavors of peppermint bark—rich chocolate and refreshing mint—into a soothing drink that’s perfect for those chilly evenings. Many people assume peppermint bark is only good for snacking, but transforming it into a creamy, decadent drink is a delightful twist that will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Whether you’re curled up by the fire or hosting holiday guests, this drink offers that unique balance of bold chocolate and cool peppermint, creating a cozy, heartwarming experience. Keep reading to discover how to bring this winter favorite right into your kitchen and enjoy its magic any night of the season!

Ingredients List

Creating this peppermint bark drink requires just a few simple ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. Below is the list, along with some helpful substitutions and dietary alternatives:

– 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess; substitute almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness; can replace with coconut cream for vegan option)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor)
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (can swap with peppermint extract for a less sweet alternative)
– 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste; honey or maple syrup can be alternatives)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream for topping (optional; coconut whipped cream works well for vegans)
– Mini peppermint bark pieces or crushed candy canes for garnish

This combination ensures a deliciously rich and minty drink with options that suit various dietary needs.

Timing

– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes

Imagine the soothing aroma of melting chocolate mingling with crisp peppermint as you prepare this drink. In just about 15 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a mug of joy ready to warm up your night. The relatively quick prep and cooking time make it an ideal choice for spontaneous evenings at home or last-minute festive gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Milk and Cream

Begin by pouring the milk and heavy cream into a medium saucepan. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling—this usually takes about 4–5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent scalding, stirring occasionally. The warm milk forms the silky base of your peppermint bark drink.

Chef’s Tip: For a smoother texture, use whole milk and fresh cream as they emulsify better and deliver a creamier mouthfeel.

Step 2: Add Chocolate and Sugar

Reduce heat to low and stir in the chocolate chips and sugar. Keep stirring continuously until the chocolate completely melts and the mixture is smooth and glossy. The sugar enhances the sweetness but can be adjusted based on your preference.

Helpful Alternative: Using high-quality dark chocolate chips will create a slightly less sweet and richer flavor profile.

Step 3: Incorporate Peppermint Flavor

Add the crushed peppermint candies or candy canes to the hot chocolate mixture. Stir gently until they melt slightly and infuse the drink with a refreshing peppermint flavor. If you prefer a milder mint taste or want to reduce grit, substitute crushed candies with 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract.

Chef’s Tip: Gradually add peppermint extract after tasting; the flavor can be quite potent.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract

Stir in the vanilla extract to add a warm, fragrant depth to the drink. Vanilla balances the intensity of the chocolate and peppermint, rounding out the flavor beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Pour the hot peppermint bark drink into your favorite mugs. Top generously with whipped cream and sprinkle the reserved crushed peppermint or small peppermint bark pieces over the whipped cream. This adds a decorative and tasty touch.

Optional: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a cinnamon stick for a cozy holiday twist.

Nutritional Information

A standard serving (1 cup) of this peppermint bark drink contains approximately:

– Calories: 250–300 (depending on dairy and sugar used)
– Fat: 14g (mainly from cream and chocolate)
– Carbohydrates: 30g (including sugars)
– Protein: 5g
– Calcium: 20% of daily value
– Iron: 8% of daily value

This indulgent drink satisfies sweet cravings while providing moderate amounts of calcium and iron from the chocolate.

Healthier Alternatives

For those seeking a lighter or more nutritious version, consider these simple ingredient swaps:

– Replace whole milk and cream with unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk to reduce fat content.
– Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for more antioxidants and less sugar.
– Sweeten with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar.
– Omit whipped cream or use coconut whipped cream to reduce saturated fats.
– Substitute peppermint candies with peppermint extract to avoid added sugar.

These adjustments maintain the festive flavor while promoting better nutritional balance.

Serving Suggestions

This drink is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of cozy snacks and seasonal treats:

– Serve alongside gingerbread cookies or shortbread for a holiday cookie and cocoa combo.
– Pair with a slice of peppermint chocolate cake or brownies for an extra indulgent dessert.
– Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a warm spice note.
– Gift the drink in trendy mason jars with holiday ribbons for a “DIY hot chocolate” gift.
– For a boozy adult twist, add a splash of peppermint schnapps or crème de cacao.

Think seasonal: fresh cranberries or a sprig of mint as garnish also add festive flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overheating the milk: This leads to a skin forming on top or scorched milk, ruining the smooth drink texture.
– Adding peppermint candies too early: They may not melt fully or cause a gritty texture. Wait until chocolate is melted before adding.
– Using low-quality chocolate: It can result in a grainy or overly sweet drink with less depth.
– Skipping continuous stirring: Prevents chocolate from clumping or burning on the bottom.
– Adding too much peppermint extract: Can overpower the chocolate and make the drink taste medicinal.

Paying attention to these details ensures a flawless peppermint bark drink every time.

Storing Tips

If you happen to have leftovers—or want to prepare the base in advance—follow these storage tips to maintain freshness:

– Store the drink in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Gently reheat over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to reincorporate the melted chocolate.
– Avoid microwaving directly to prevent uneven heating or scorching.
– Whipped cream and garnishes should be added fresh before serving, not stored with the drink.
– If using crushed peppermint candy as a topping, keep those separate to preserve crunchiness.

Proper storage allows you to enjoy the same delicious taste even after multiple servings.

Conclusion

This peppermint bark drink combines festive flavors of chocolate and mint into a cozy, easy-to-make treat perfect for winter nights. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and options for customization, it’s a wonderful addition to your holiday beverage lineup.

Enjoy making this comforting drink your own and share your variations or experiences in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipe ideas and tips for your kitchen adventures.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this peppermint bark drink vegan?
Absolutely! Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk, coconut cream in place of heavy cream, and vegan chocolate chips. Substitute whipped cream with coconut whipped cream or skip it entirely.

Q2: How can I make this drink less sweet?
Reduce the sugar or use bittersweet chocolate chips. You can also replace peppermint candies with peppermint extract, which offers flavor without added sugar.

Q3: Can I prepare the drink ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the base and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving and add whipped cream just before drinking.

Q4: What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies?
Place candies in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or kitchen mallet to gently crush into small pieces. Avoid pulverizing into a powder for better texture.

Q5: Can I make this drink iced?
Definitely! Cool the hot peppermint bark drink, pour over ice, and garnish with whipped cream and crushed peppermint for a refreshing holiday cooler.

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For related recipes, check out our Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix and Classic Peppermint Bark recipes to complement this drink perfectly.

Embark on your cozy night ritual with this delightful peppermint bark drink and savor the warmth and cheer of the season!