This festive Grinch Hot Chocolate is a fun and colorful treat! With a bright green swirl of whipped cream and a hint of peppermint, it’s sure to put a smile on anyone’s face.
If you love cozy drinks, this is perfect for the holidays. I enjoy sharing it with friends while playing holiday music—it just makes everything feel extra cheerful! 🎄☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Milk: I love using whole milk for a rich and creamy texture, but you can swap it for almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk you prefer. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you choose a dairy-free option, so it doesn’t alter the sweetness of the hot chocolate.
White Chocolate Chips: White chocolate gives this drink its delightful creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free white chocolate chips or even a touch of coconut cream for a similar effect.
Peppermint Extract: This adds that classic minty flavor! If peppermint isn’t your thing, you can use vanilla extract for a sweeter taste. Some people love adding a bit of almond extract too!
Green Food Coloring: This is what makes it “Grinch” themed! If you prefer not to use artificial colors, you can find natural green food coloring made from plants. You could also skip it for a simple white hot chocolate!
How Do I Make the Perfect Whipped Cream Topping?
A fluffy whipped cream topping is key to making your Grinch Hot Chocolate feel special. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start with cold heavy whipping cream—this helps it whip up faster.
- Use a mixing bowl that’s also chilled to keep things cool.
- Beat the cream at medium speed and gradually add some sugar (powdered sugar works best for smoothness) and vanilla extract.
- Whip until soft peaks form—don’t overdo it, or it will turn into butter!
- Now, you’re ready to pile it high on your hot chocolate!
Feel free to sprinkle extra sugar decorations on top of the whipped cream for that festive touch!
Grinch Hot Chocolate
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon white chocolate syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mini marshmallows, for topping
- Red and green sugar sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delightful Grinch Hot Chocolate takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and make. Perfect for a quick and festive treat any time during the holiday season!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Milk:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it’s steaming but not boiling. This will help bring out the hot chocolate’s flavors without scalding the milk.
2. Melt the Chocolate:
Add the white chocolate chips and white chocolate syrup (if you want it extra sweet) to the warmed milk. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Flavor it Up:
Once the chocolate is melted, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract. This will give your hot chocolate that refreshing minty taste.
4. Add Some Green:
Now for the fun part! Add green food coloring a few drops at a time, stirring until you reach your desired bright “Grinch” green color. Make it as vibrant as you’d like!
5. Serve It Up:
Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mugs. The fun designs can add to the festive mood!
6. Top it Off:
Top your mug generously with whipped cream for a fluffy finish. Add mini marshmallows on top for that extra sweetness.
7. Sprinkle on the Fun:
Finally, add red and green sugar sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive garnish. This will not only look great but will also provide an extra crunch!
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy your bright, cheerful Grinch Hot Chocolate! Perfect for chilly evenings and holiday celebrations!
This drink is creamy, minty, and visually vibrant—guaranteed to bring smiles and cheer!
Can I Use a Different Type of Milk?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, or even coconut milk as a substitute for whole milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened, so it doesn’t alter the flavor too much!
What If I Don’t Have Peppermint Extract?
No worries! If you prefer a different flavor, you can replace the peppermint extract with vanilla extract for a sweeter taste or even almond extract for a unique twist.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover hot chocolate, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Hot Chocolate Vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free white chocolate chips. You can also make homemade whipped cream using coconut cream for a delicious dairy-free topping!