Hey y'all! If you're craving a dessert that's as cozy as your favorite sweater and packs a punch of chocolatey minty goodness, look no further! This Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fluff is irresistibly creamy, light, and decadent—perfect for holiday gatherings, snowy movie nights, or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. The combination of velvety hot chocolate and cool peppermint will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Super quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep!
- Perfectly creamy, fluffy texture with a refreshing minty twist.
- Kid-friendly and a hit with adults; ideal for parties or snacking.
- All ingredients are simple, everyday pantry staples.
- It’s totally customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup hot chocolate (prepared and cooled to room temperature)
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for topping)
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Make sure your cream cheese is soft and your hot chocolate is cooled to room temperature before starting. Thaw the whipped topping in the refrigerator if needed.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth—about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Hot Chocolate & Peppermint
Slowly mix in the cooled hot chocolate and peppermint extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and well-combined (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 4: Fold in Whipped Topping
Using a spatula, gently fold in the whipped topping until no streaks remain. Be careful not to deflate the mixture—it should be nice and fluffy!
Step 5: Add Marshmallows & Peppermint
Fold in the mini marshmallows and ½ cup crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate the Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fluff for at least 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld and the texture to set. When ready to serve, garnish with extra peppermint candies and chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
- Let all cold ingredients come to room temperature for the creamiest texture.
- For best fluff, fold in whipped topping very gently!
- You can use homemade or store-bought hot chocolate—just cool it before adding.
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped topping.
- Chocolate Overload: Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
- Mocha Fluff: Replace half the hot chocolate with cooled coffee for a mocha twist.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions
Store Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fluff covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving again. Not freezer-friendly, as the texture may change.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Scoop onto chocolate cookies, graham crackers, or use as a festive dip for pretzels.
- Serve in individual cups with a sprinkle of extra peppermint candy and mini marshmallows on top.
- Perfect alongside hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy dessert spread.
Pro Tips
- Chill your mixing bowl in the fridge before making fluff for an extra light texture.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor; homemade hot chocolate is ideal.
- Crush peppermint candies finely for better distribution and crunch in every bite.
FAQ
Can I make Hot Chocolate Peppermint Fluff ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours—just store in the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving.
Can I use real whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, you can substitute 2 cups of freshly whipped cream, though the fluff may be slightly less stable over time. Be gentle when folding it in!
Can I leave out the peppermint for a classic hot chocolate fluff?
You sure can! Just skip the peppermint extract and candies for a pure chocolate version.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
Ingredients
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 2 tablespoons crushed candy canes
Instructions
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1In a medium saucepan, combine whole milk and heavy cream. Warm over medium heat until steaming, but do not boil.
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2Whisk in the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
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3Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
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4Pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
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5Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the whipped cream and serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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