The BEST Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

Save time and money by making your own version of a coffeeshop holiday favorite–this is the BEST copycat Starbucks peppermint hot cocoa mix recipe, and it’s super easy to make from 5 pantry staples! 

The Best peppermint hot cocoa mix recipe

As it gets cooler out, and closer to the holidays, the last thing I want to do is run out of my warm house to go to Starbucks, and the last thing my wallet wants me to do is spend even more money than I am already spending on presents! {giggle}

The perfect solution? Whip up a rich and creamy mug (or two!) of this delicious copycat Starbucks pepper mint hot cocoa mix recipe. In the time you would’ve spent running out to a coffeeshop, you can wrap presents as your cocoa simmers, and then treat yourself to a steaming mug of peppermint hot cocoa and a Hallmark Christmas movie! 

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This Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe: 

• Serves: 10-12
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients Needed

• 2 cups instant dry milk 
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• Peppermint extract (or peppermint syrup)

Optional Add Ins & Toppings

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips, white, milk or semi-sweet
• Mini marshmallows
• Peppermint Whipped Cream
• Regular Whipped Cream
• Holiday Sprinkles
• Mini candy canes or regular sized candy canes make a “sweet” garnish!

Instructions To Make This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Recipe

Step 1

In a large bowl, sift powdered sugar.

Step 2

Sift instant dry milk on top of powdered sugar.

Step 3

Sift cocoa powder on top.

Step 4

Whisk together.

Step 5

Whisk in granulated sugar until well combined.

Step 6

Store in airtight container or jar for up to 3 months.

Step 7

To make peppermint hot cocoa, add 1/3 cup of mix in a mug, stir in 1 cup warm milk, add peppermint extract (to taste), and toppings of your choice.

Note:

I like using heavy cream or whole milk or half heavy whipping cream and half milk. It makes it extra rich and creamy. Trimming calories? Use skim milk.

Can’t have milk? Add it to coconut milk. If you don’t like coconut milk you can use almond milk. Milk alternatives will still make this festive drink with a minty flavor equally delicious…it will still be your favorite delicious drink.

Love mocha? Add this to your coffee for peppermint mocha. Coffee and peppermint flavor and chocolate flavor go well together to make your favorite warm drinks.

How to store homemade hot cocoa mix

Make sure you keep your homemade hot chocolate mix in an airtight container, in a cool area (like the pantry). 

How Long Does THis Copycat starbucks peppermint hot cocoa mix last?

Not long in my house–ha! 

If stored properly, homemade hot chocolate mix can last up to 3 months. That way you can enjoy easy hot chocolate with a hint of peppermint almost all winter long.

Homemade peppermint hot cocoa mix makes a wonderful Holiday gift! 

Gift your loved ones with everything they need to make their own steaming mug of peppermint hot cocoa at home this holiday season! 

• Start with a pretty holiday basket and a mason jar.
• Fill the mason jar with your homemade peppermint hot cocoa mix.
• You can also add layers of mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, holiday sprinkles, or crushed candy canes to create an eye-catching pattern!
• Write out this peppermint hot cocoa mix recipe on a cute holiday-themed recipe card, and then tie it to the jar of hot cocoa with a festive ribbon. 
• Add cute little jars of mini marshmallows, crushed peppermint candies, candy melts,  holiday sprinkles, and mini chocolate chips for fun topping options.
• You can also add holiday mugs, cookies, a cozy blanket (like this Hallmark Christmas movie-watching blanket!), and a holiday movie!

Easy & Delicious Hot Cocoa Recipes From Kids Activities Blog

Which topping will you choose first for your copycat Starbucks peppermint hot cocoa? It’s peppermint whipped cream, with chocolate shavings, and crushed peppermint candies for me–YUM!