Peppermint Hot Chocolate

When I was a senior in college, the university food services opened up a coffee shop just across the street from the campus. It was like a cheaper version of Starbucks. Perfect for the poor college student like I was! One of my favorite things to get on a cold night after class, was their White Hot Chocolate. I don't know what it was about it but that delicious concoction was addicting. I'm not sure how much I spent over the year but I know it was way more than I should!

Fast forward to a few weeks ago, I had a craving for some white hot chocolate. Since I am about 150 miles and 3 hours away from my university, I needed something to make at home since I am not a huge fan of Starbucks White Hot Chocolate. Instead, I had found a nice, yummy recipe for white hot chocolate. Unfortunately, I didn't have any white chocolate when I went to make it! Groan!! So I made a few changes based on what I had on hand and came up with this peppermint hot chocolate. It was quite tasty and it didn't take too long at all!

It was soooo good. I used Andes peppermint baking chips and a milk chocolate. The peppermint was strong but not overwhelming. I was wishing I had another cup by the time I was done. Definitely on my must make frequently list! Yes...even in the summer! The original version from Once Upon a Plate is still on my list to make when I have white chocolate!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Adapted from White Christmas Hot Chocolate

1 serving

about 1/3 cup of milk chocolate chips (or chocolate of your choice)
2-3 T of mint baking chips (A guesstimate. I'm not sure exactly what I threw in there!)
1/4 cup half and half
1 cup milk (I used non fat)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (I like mine with lots of vanilla but you can use less or to your taste)
Whipped Cream to top

Directions

Combine chocolate, peppermint chips, and half and half in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until chocolate melts.

Stir in milk and vanilla extract. Heat gently until hot, stirring occasionally. To make the hot chocolate smooth, blend carefully with an immersion blender. Careful...its hot!!!

Pour into a mug then top with whipped cream.