Hot Chocolate With Peppermint

Ive been so cold lately and was searching for something minty and chocolatey. This one from a local news show warms you from the inside out and rivals a hot chocolate that I once had in Austria. Yummy! Makes 2 large portions or 4 normal sized ones.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 2-4

Ingredients

• 3  ounces  milk chocolate, chopped (or semisweet)
• 1⁄4 cup water
• 3  cups  whole milk
• 1⁄4 cup  peppermint syrup (I found by the ice cream toppings)
• 2  cups  whipped cream
• 1⁄4 cup  crushed  peppermint candy (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup cocoa powder (optional)

Directions

1. Place chocolate and water in a saucepan over low heat.
2. Stir constantly.
3. Once the chocolate has fully melted, gradually add milk.
4. Bring mixture to an even heat.
5. Transfer hot mixture to a blender and add syrup.
6. Cover the top with a towel to avoid spilling and coming in contact with hot liquid.
7. Blend for 15 to 20 seconds until frothy. Pour into mugs.
8. Top with whipped cream.
9. Garnish whipped cream with crushed peppermint and/or cocoa powder.