Homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix

Peppermint hot chocolate mix is one of those handmade gifts that feels thoughtful but takes almost no time to put together. Layered into mason jars with crushed candy canes and chopped Andes mints, it looks as festive as it tastes. All anyone has to do is add hot water for a cozy, minty cup.

Add as a Google trusted source

Glass mug of peppermint hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, chocolate drizzle and crushed candy canes

Why This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix Shines

Rich cocoa flavor with a cool, candy cane minty finish
Layers beautifully in jars for an easy edible gift
No cooking required, just sift, layer, and tie a ribbon
Makes enough for several jars to share around

A mason jar layered with cocoa mix and crushed candy canes

Remember it later!

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

in this recipe!

The holidays move fast, and a good make ahead gift takes the pressure off. This one is part candy, part cocoa, and entirely cozy in a mug.

Sift the dry ingredients well so the cocoa blends smoothly and dissolves without lumps in the mug.

Why You'll Love This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix
Ingredient Notes
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix
Storage Options
Variations & Substitutions
What to Serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix

Save this recipe

Enter your email and I’ll send this recipe straight to your inbox.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix

This peppermint hot chocolate mix tastes deeply chocolatey with a bright, refreshing mint kick
The crushed candy canes and Andes mints melt into a smooth, sweet cup
It is a feel good gift that looks like you spent far more time than you did

Ingredient Notes

This mix comes together from pantry staples and a little holiday candy; you will find the exact measurements in the recipe card below. Here is what each part brings to the mug.

Powdered milk lets the mix turn creamy with just hot water, no fresh milk needed
Dutch process cocoa gives a deep, smooth chocolate flavor
Powdered sugar dissolves quickly and sweetens without grit
Crushed candy canes are the source of that classic peppermint flavor
Andes mint candies add a rich chocolate mint layer that melts into the cup

For equipment, you mainly need a sieve for sifting, a large bowl, and clean mason jars with lids. A funnel makes layering the mix into jars far less messy.

How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix

Putting together this peppermint hot chocolate mix is more assembly than cooking. You sift, you layer, and you dress up the jars.

Sift together the powdered milk, powdered sugar, cocoa, and salt until smooth
Divide the mix evenly into mason jars, leaving about 3 to 4 inches of headspace at the top
Layer the crushed candy canes and chopped Andes candies into that headspace
Add lids and ribbon, then attach a card with serving instructions
Note that you fill a mug one third with mix and the rest with boiling water, then stir

One batch makes around 16 servings worth of mix, which you can split among several jars depending on size. Because it is dry, you can make it up to 2 months ahead and keep it sealed until gifting day.

Leave room for the candyDo not overfill the jars with cocoa mix. Saving 3 to 4 inches of headspace gives the candy cane and Andes layers room to show off.

Storage Options

Since this is a dry mix, storage is simple and forgiving. Keep moisture out and it will stay fresh for weeks.

Store sealed jars in a cool, dry pantry for up to 2 months
Once opened, use within 1 month for the best flavor
Keep jars away from heat and humidity so the cocoa stays loose

Variations & Substitutions

This peppermint hot chocolate mix is easy to tailor to whatever you have or whoever is receiving it. A few simple changes keep it interesting.

Add mini marshmallows as a top layer for an extra cozy touch
Swap the Andes mints for white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier cup
Use dark cocoa for a richer, more grown up flavor
Stir in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spiced version

If you love handmade holiday treats, this fits right in with other cozy favorites. Pair the gift with our gingerbread crepes with espresso chocolate sauce for a full festive brunch.

What to Serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate Mix

A mug made from this peppermint hot chocolate mix is lovely on its own, but it really shines next to a few sweet companions. Set out a little spread for a cozy night in.

Buttery sugar cookies or shortbread for dunking
A swirl of whipped cream and extra crushed candy canes on top
A warm, hearty dinner first, like our Caribbean short ribs
A peppermint stick to stir and slowly melt into the cocoa

Before you start filling jars, here are answers to the questions that come up most often.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does peppermint hot chocolate mix last?

Sealed in a cool, dry spot, the mix stays fresh for about 2 months, which makes it ideal for gifting through the holiday season.

Can I use regular milk instead of powdered milk?

The powdered milk is what lets the mix turn creamy with just hot water, but you can also make it with cocoa and sugar only and stir it into hot fresh milk.

How much mix do I use per mug?

Fill the mug about one third of the way with mix, then top it with boiling water and stir until smooth.

Can I make a dairy free version?

Yes. Use a powdered plant based milk and check that your cocoa and candies are dairy free.

With a few pantry staples and some holiday candy, you have a gift that warms hands and hearts alike. Layer up a few jars, tie on a ribbon, and share a little homemade comfort this season.

A Beautiful Bite