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This mint hot chocolate is a cozy, creamy treat that brings together rich chocolate and cool peppermint in the most delicious way. Inspired by everyone’s favorite Thin Mint cookies, this easy homemade hot chocolate recipe is perfect for chilly days, holiday season, or anytime you’re craving that classic chocolate-mint flavor in a warm, comforting mug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
If there’s one thing I can never say no to, it’s a cute little Girl Scout selling cookies. I was a Brownie and a Girl Scout myself (with my mom as my leader), so supporting those sweet girls always feels a little nostalgic. And when it comes to favorites, Thin Mints win every time—hands down, no contest! The only problem? Eventually those boxes are empty and I’m left missing that irresistible mint-chocolate combination.
That’s where this Mint Hot Chocolate comes in. It’s like a warm, cozy mug of melted Thin Mint goodness, with rich chocolate and just the right touch of cool peppermint. Creamy, comforting, and easy to make, this recipe satisfies those Thin Mint cravings long after cookie season is over. Whether you’re curling up on a chilly evening or treating yourself to a little nostalgic indulgence, this mint hot chocolate is pure chocolate-mint bliss in a mug.
Ingredients Needed
- Cocoa Powder
- Sugar
- Salt
- Vanilla Extract
- Peppermint Extract
- Milk of choice. I use 2 percent or whole milk, depending on what I have in my fridge.
- Whipped Cream or marshmallows for garnish
How to Make Mint Hot Chocolate
- Mix together sugar, cocoa and salt in a pan or pot.
- Add water and mix until dissolved.
- Bring to a boil and cook and stir for about 2 minutes
- Add in milk and extract.
- Cook until hot. Do not allow to boil.
Tips from leigh Anne
- Use good quality cocoa or chocolate. Because this recipe has simple ingredients, quality matters. Use a rich cocoa powder or good chocolate chips for the best flavor and a smooth, creamy texture.
- Start with a small amount of peppermint. Peppermint extract is strong, so a little goes a long way. Start with just a drop or two, taste, and add more if needed. You want a refreshing mint flavor—not toothpaste!
- Heat gently for a creamy texture. Warm the milk over medium-low heat and stir frequently. Avoid boiling, which can scorch the milk and affect the flavor. Slow and gentle heating gives you that perfectly creamy cup.
- Make it extra indulgent. Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed chocolate mint cookies for a fun Thin Mint-inspired finish. A drizzle of chocolate syrup takes it over the top.
- Adjust to your sweetness preference. If you like your hot chocolate sweeter, add a bit more sugar or use milk chocolate instead of dark. Prefer it richer? A splash of cream or half-and-half will make it extra decadent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use peppermint syrup instead of peppermint extract?
Yes! Peppermint syrup works well and adds sweetness along with mint flavor. Just reduce any added sugar slightly so the drink doesn’t become too sweet.
What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk will give you the creamiest, richest hot chocolate, but you can use 2%, skim, or even non-dairy milks like almond, oat, or coconut. Choose your favorite and adjust for desired richness. Use what you have in the fridge.
Can I make mint hot chocolate ahead of time?
You can! Prepare the hot chocolate and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
Can I turn this into a mocha or coffee drink?
Yes! Add a shot of espresso or a bit of strong brewed coffee for a delicious mint mocha twist. It’s a cozy, coffeehouse-style treat right at home.
There’s nothing quite like a mug of homemade mint hot chocolate to turn an ordinary moment into something special. Rich, creamy chocolate paired with cool peppermint creates the perfect balance of cozy and refreshing in every sip. Whether you’re curling up on a chilly evening, serving it at a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself after dinner, this mint hot chocolate is an easy, comforting recipe you’ll come back to all season long.
For a few other delicious mint recipes:
- Thin Mint Cookie Pizza
- Mint Oreo Brownies
- Grasshopper Mint Chocolate Cookies
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
- Mint Chocolate Brownies
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Mint Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- pinch of salt
- 1/3 cup hot water
- 3 cups milk I used 2 %
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, cocoa and salt in a pan.
- Add water and mix until dissolved.
- Bring to a boil and cook and stir for about 2 minutes
- Add in milk and extract.
- Cook until hot. Do not allow to boil
Tips & Notes:
- Use good quality cocoa or chocolate. Because this recipe has simple ingredients, quality matters. Use a rich cocoa powder or good chocolate chips for the best flavor and a smooth, creamy texture.
- Start with a small amount of peppermint. Peppermint extract is strong, so a little goes a long way. Start with just a drop or two, taste, and add more if needed. You want a refreshing mint flavor—not toothpaste!
- Heat gently for a creamy texture. Warm the milk over medium-low heat and stir frequently. Avoid boiling, which can scorch the milk and affect the flavor. Slow and gentle heating gives you that perfectly creamy cup.
- Make it extra indulgent. Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed chocolate mint cookies for a fun Thin Mint-inspired finish. A drizzle of chocolate syrup takes it over the top.
- Adjust to your sweetness preference. If you like your hot chocolate sweeter, add a bit more sugar or use milk chocolate instead of dark. Prefer it richer? A splash of cream or half-and-half will make it extra decadent.
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Nutrition Facts:
Jelli says
This looks delicious, Leigh Anne! Every year I get anxious around this time, hoping my mother will send a few boxes of Girl Scout cookies in the mail. Sadly, Costa Rica’s version of scouts do no cookie sales whatsoever. Definitely something I should recommend! 🙂 Thanks for sharing your recipe.
Davonne Parks says
My oldest daughter’s favorite GS cookies are Thin Mints, but we’ve recently had to go gluten free and dairy free at home so Thin Mints are out this year. I made this as a surprise for her tonight and she LOVED it and said it tastes like hot Thin Mints! (I used organic sugar and unsweetened soy milk.) Our entire family agreed this was by far the BEST dairy-free hot chocolate we’ve had yet. Seriously amazing stuff, thank you so much for this recipe! I pinned it and know we’ll make it over and over again 🙂
Leigh Anne says
I am so glad your daughter loved it. I have a daughter that is gluten free and dairy free too and it always makes me so happy when I can make something that she loves and can eat!
Carol Z says
This looks so good. My mom was a Girl Scout Leader and chaired our cookie drive. That could have been our living room.
Leigh Anne says
Such fun memories!
Jenna @ A Savory Feast says
I am a sucker for thin mint cookies, those girl scouts get me everytime! This sounds so good, I am pinning so I can give it a try! Thanks for sharing.
Leigh Anne says
Jenna, Yeah, I can’t resist a Girl Scout either! Thanks for pinning.
Holly says
Oh my goodness! I’m drooling over this! I think I’ve gained 5 lbs. just looking at the yummy pictures! Ü
Leigh Anne says
Thanks Holly! Sorry about the 5 lbs :)!!