Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

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If cozy had a flavor, it would be wrapped in these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins. They are the perfect blend of rich cocoa, cooling peppermint, and a soft, moist crumb that makes each bite better than the last. Ideal for winter mornings, holiday gatherings, or a festive treat any time of year, these muffins bring the comforting essence of hot chocolate right to your plate—with a pepperminty twist that wakes up your taste buds.

These muffins are more than just pretty with their snowy white topping and flecks of crushed candy canes. They taste like a warm cup of peppermint hot cocoa but in portable, perfectly portioned form. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying with a mug of something warm, they hit all the right notes of sweet, minty, and chocolatey.

Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

These muffins are a winter dream baked into a paper liner. They have a deep cocoa base that’s tender and not too sweet, balanced with bursts of peppermint from extract and crushed candy cane topping. They bake up beautifully domed, soft, and stay moist for days—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon nibble. If you love hot chocolate with a peppermint stick, this is your kind of muffin.

Can I Use Regular Hot Cocoa Mix Instead of Cocoa Powder?

You can, but I recommend sticking with unsweetened cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor. Hot cocoa mix often contains sugar and powdered milk, which can alter the moisture balance and sweetness of the muffins. If you do substitute, reduce the sugar in the recipe and expect a milder flavor.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Creating these muffins is a simple process with everyday pantry staples and a few holiday-inspired additions. Every ingredient here plays a role in building the structure, flavor, and texture of the final muffin.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the base and structure.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder: Helps the muffins rise tall and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the muffins and helps with texture.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the dry ingredients.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb moist and soft.
• Peppermint extract: Adds the cool minty flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor.
• Crushed candy canes: For topping and a festive crunch.
• Mini chocolate chips (optional): For extra bursts of chocolate in every bite.

How To Make the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This helps the muffins come out clean and adds a touch of presentation.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Make sure the cocoa is fully blended for even flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. If using, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Top

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes while still slightly warm for best adhesion.

Storing and Serving These Muffins

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins serve 12 and keep well for several days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight and warm slightly before serving. Serve them as a sweet breakfast with coffee or hot cocoa, or offer them as a dessert at your next holiday party.

What to Serve With Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins?

Hot Cocoa

Pair these muffins with a steaming cup of creamy hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy combo.

Vanilla Latte

The mild sweetness and frothy texture of a vanilla latte contrasts nicely with the rich, minty muffin.

Scrambled Eggs

A savory bite balances out the sweetness and rounds out a brunch spread.

Fruit Salad

Add freshness and brightness with a medley of citrus and berries.

Peppermint Mocha

For the bold mint-chocolate lovers, double down with a peppermint mocha.

Greek Yogurt Parfait

Layered with granola and fruit, it’s a great protein-packed partner.

Whipped Cream or Marshmallow Spread

Spread a dollop on top for an extra treat.

Cheese Board

Offer muffins as a sweet addition to a holiday brunch or party platter.

Want More Muffin Ideas with Holiday Vibes?

If you love these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins, you might enjoy these other cozy recipes too:

• Try the Pumpkin Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Filling for a fall-inspired delight.
• Bake a batch of Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies for a caramel-chocolate fix.
• These Warm and Cozy Apple Crisp bring all the comforting fall flavors to life.
• Love a bit of nostalgia? Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls are as festive as they are delicious.
• For a creamy holiday treat, check out the White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with the crushed candy canes or try something else on top? Maybe a chocolate drizzle or marshmallow fluff?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and baked goodies on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to treat!

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