This peppermint hot chocolate mix in a jar brings the holiday spirit to every sip. The combination of rich cocoa and cool mint creates a warming treat that’s perfect for chilly evenings or thoughtful gifting.
Layering the dry ingredients in a jar makes assembly simple and visually appealing. Just add hot milk, stir, and enjoy a creamy, indulgent beverage with minimal effort. The mix stays fresh for weeks, ready whenever a craving strikes.
Each serving delivers a velvety texture with a refreshing mint finish. The blend of sweet and brisk flavors captures the essence of the season, making it a beloved tradition for sharing or savoring alone.
Perfect for cozy nights by the fire or as a heartfelt present for friends and family. This mix turns ordinary moments into something special.
Ingredients for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe in a Jar
Layer these dry ingredients in a jar for a festive, giftable holiday treat.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar 🍚 | 1 cup | Fine white sugar preferred |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder 🍫 | ½ cup | Dutch-process for smoother taste |
| Powdered Sugar 🍬 | ¼ cup | For creaminess and sweetness |
| Crushed Peppermint Candy 🍬 | ½ cup | Plus extra for garnish |
| Non-Fat Dry Milk Powder 🥛 | ½ cup | For creamy texture |
| Cornstarch 🌾 | 1 tbsp | Thickens the mixture |
| Salt 🧂 | ¼ tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Peppermint Extract 🌿 | 1 tsp | Pure extract for best flavor |
| Mini Marshmallows ⚪ | ½ cup | Optional for topping |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips 🍫 | ½ cup | For rich chocolate flavor |
The cocoa powder is key here. Hershey’s Special Dark or Ghirardelli Dutch-process give the richest chocolate flavor. You’ll find both at any grocery store. For the peppermint, use Bob’s Candy Canes—they crush easily and have that classic holiday mint taste. Make sure your candy canes are fresh; stale ones lose their punch.
No Dutch-process cocoa? Natural cocoa powder works too, though the flavor will be slightly sharper. Out of candy canes? Peppermint candies or Andes mints crush just as well. Skip the extract if you’re sensitive to strong mint flavors. For a dairy-free version, swap the dry milk for coconut milk powder (available at Whole Foods).
Store in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 6 weeks. The flavors meld over time, so it’s even better after a week. Perfect for gifting—just add a ribbon and a tag with instructions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 5-Minute Assembly: I just layer the dry ingredients in a jar—sugar, cocoa, milk powder, then crushed candy canes on top. No mixing, no fuss.
- Holiday in a Mug: That first sip with the candy cane crunch melting into rich cocoa? Pure winter magic.
- Gift or Treat: I tie a ribbon on the jar for teachers or keep it in my pantry for sudden cocoa cravings.
- Pantry Staples Only: Honestly, I always have these ingredients on hand, so it’s a last-minute lifesaver.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix in a Jar
This layering method ensures every jar looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Step 1: Combine Dry Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the 1 cup Granulated Sugar, 0.5 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, 0.25 cup Powdered Sugar, 0.5 cup Non-Fat Dry Milk Powder, 1 tbsp Cornstarch, and 0.25 tsp Salt until no visible clumps remain. I use a fine-mesh sieve for the cocoa powder to prevent any lumps.
The dry milk powder creates a creamy texture when mixed with hot liquid, while the cornstarch prevents clumping. You’ll notice the mixture lightens in color as the ingredients incorporate evenly. This base ensures your hot chocolate will be smooth and rich without any graininess.
Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancers
Stir in the 0.5 cup Crushed Peppermint Candy and 1 tsp Peppermint Extract until fully distributed. The candy pieces will release their minty aroma as you mix, creating that signature holiday scent.
I recommend adding the peppermint extract gradually—start with ½ tsp, taste the mixture, then add the remaining ½ tsp if you prefer a stronger flavor. The crushed candy provides texture and bursts of mint, while the extract ensures consistent flavor throughout.
Step 3: Layer Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows
Add the 0.5 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips to the bowl and fold gently to combine. The chocolate chips will melt when hot liquid is added, creating a decadent, extra-rich hot chocolate.
If using, add the 0.5 cup Mini Marshmallows last and fold lightly to distribute without crushing them. The marshmallows will float to the top when layered in the jar, creating a festive presentation. For the best visual effect, reserve a few marshmallows to press against the inside of the jar before sealing.
Step 4: Package in Jars for Gift Giving
Spoon the mixture into clean, dry jars, filling them to about ¾ full to allow room for settling. I use a funnel for a mess-free transfer and tap the jar gently on the counter to help the contents settle evenly.
For a professional finish, wipe the rim of the jar with a damp cloth before sealing. The layers should remain distinct, with the chocolate chips and candy pieces visible through the glass. Add a ribbon and a gift tag with preparation instructions: “Add 1 cup hot milk, stir well, and top with extra marshmallows if desired.”
Pro Tips For Making Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe In A Jar
- Sift the cocoa: I learned this the hard way—unsifted cocoa powder leaves stubborn lumps in your mix. A quick pass through a fine-mesh sieve guarantees smooth, clump-free hot chocolate every time.
- Crush candy finer: Use a food processor or rolling pin to pulverize the peppermint candy into almost a powder. Big chunks sink to the bottom of the jar and won’t dissolve evenly in hot milk.
- Layer dry ingredients: Start with the dry milk powder at the bottom, then sugar, then cocoa, and finish with crushed candy on top. This keeps the candy from absorbing moisture and turning your mix into a hard brick.
- Use full-fat powder: Sounds weird, but swapping non-fat dry milk for full-fat powder makes a noticeably creamier cup. It’s the one upgrade I refuse to skip, even if it’s a little pricier.
Essential Equipment for This Dish
Mixing Bowl
A large stainless steel mixing bowl with a wide base is essential for combining dry ingredients evenly. I use a 3-quart bowl from OXO—it gives me plenty of room to whisk without spills. The smooth surface also makes it easy to see when all ingredients are fully incorporated. 💪
Whisk
A sturdy balloon whisk breaks up clumps in cocoa powder and dry milk, ensuring a silky texture. My go-to is the Cuisinox 12-inch whisk—it’s durable and reaches the corners of my mixing bowl. A fine-mesh sieve can also help sift out any stubborn lumps in the cocoa.
Measuring Tools
Use dry measuring cups for accuracy with powders and granular ingredients. I prefer the Pyrex 4-piece set for its clear markings and heat-resistant glass. For smaller quantities like cornstarch, measuring spoons from 1 tsp to 1 tbsp are a must.
Storage Jars
Wide-mouth quart-sized mason jars work perfectly for layering and gifting. Ball or Kerr brands have reliable sealing lids that keep the mix fresh. For presentation, clear jars highlight the colorful layers beautifully. I always fill to ¾ capacity to allow settling space. ✨
Funnel
A wide-mouth canning funnel makes transferring the mix into jars clean and efficient. I use a stainless steel funnel from Norpro—it fits snugly in mason jar openings and prevents spills on the rim. This small tool saves time and keeps your workspace tidy.
Crushing Tool
For crushing peppermint candies, a rolling pin or food processor works best. I place candy canes in a ziplock bag, seal it tightly, then roll with a pin for controlled crushing. For finer texture, pulse in a mini food processor for 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the mix stay fresh in the jar?
Stored in an airtight jar at room temperature, your mix will stay fresh for up to 6 weeks. The flavors actually meld together over time, making it taste even better after a week or two.
Can I use water instead of milk?
You can, but milk creates a creamier texture. For dairy-free options, try almond milk or oat milk for similar richness. Water will work in a pinch but may taste less indulgent.
What if the candy canes won’t crush easily?
Place them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin for controlled crushing. For finer texture, pulse in a food processor for 10-15 seconds. Fresh candy canes crush more easily than stale ones.
Is peppermint extract necessary?
It enhances the flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a milder mint taste. The crushed candy alone provides plenty of peppermint flavor. Start with ½ tsp if you’re unsure.
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