Name: Christmas Elf Hot Chocolate
Ingredients: 3 cups milk – This can be either dairy or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, providing the creamy base for our hot chocolate.; 1 cup heavy cream – For an ultra-creamy texture, heavy cream enhances the richness of the drink.; 1 cup white chocolate chips – These add a sweet, indulgent flavor that sets this hot chocolate apart from others.; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the hot chocolate.; 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) – This offers a refreshing holiday twist if you choose to include it.; Green food coloring – A fun addition that gives the hot chocolate its festive color.; Whipped cream – For topping, adding a light and airy contrast to the rich hot chocolate.; Red & green sprinkles – These make for a colorful presentation, perfect for the holidays.; Mini marshmallows – A classic topping that adds sweetness and a bit of nostalgia.; Crushed candy canes (optional) – A crunchy topping with a minty flavor that perfectly complements the drink.

Description

Warm up with Christmas Elf Hot Chocolate, a festive blend of rich chocolate and peppermint, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups milk – This can be either dairy or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, providing the creamy base for our hot chocolate.
1 cup heavy cream – For an ultra-creamy texture, heavy cream enhances the richness of the drink.
1 cup white chocolate chips – These add a sweet, indulgent flavor that sets this hot chocolate apart from others.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the hot chocolate.
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) – This offers a refreshing holiday twist if you choose to include it.
Green food coloring – A fun addition that gives the hot chocolate its festive color.
Whipped cream – For topping, adding a light and airy contrast to the rich hot chocolate.
Red & green sprinkles – These make for a colorful presentation, perfect for the holidays.
Mini marshmallows – A classic topping that adds sweetness and a bit of nostalgia.
Crushed candy canes (optional) – A crunchy topping with a minty flavor that perfectly complements the drink.

Instructions

Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Place over medium-low heat and warm until hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add white chocolate: Once the milk mixture is hot, add 1 cup of white chocolate chips into the saucepan. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Incorporate the extracts: Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract (if using) to the hot chocolate mixture. Mix thoroughly.
Color the drink: Add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve the desired festive shade. Stir until the color is evenly distributed.
Serve the hot chocolate: Carefully pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream, along with mini marshmallows, red & green sprinkles, and, if desired, a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for extra flavor.