It may be named after a bad-tempered worker in Santa’s workshop, but The Ornery Elf is absolutely sure to put a smile on your face! This is like a boozy hot chocolate, with all the richness and chocolatey goodness that implies! A little touch of cool, refreshing peppermint adds a delicious edge to the chocolate flavor and really makes this feel like a North Pole favorite! The Ornery Elf can warm up even the grouchiest of moods!
Ingredients
For the hot chocolate:
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup brewed espresso
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup peppermint mocha cream liqueur, such as Kahlua® Mint Mocha
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup, optional, homemade or store-bought
Optional toppings:
- whipped cream, to taste, homemade or store-bought
- peppermint candy cane, to taste, crushed
- chocolate syrup, to taste
Directions
Step 1 –In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the milk and the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 2 –In a medium heatproof bowl, add the chopped chocolate.
Step 3 –Pour the heated milk mixture into the bowl with the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4 –Stir the chocolate-milk mixture until smooth and incorporated.
Step 5 –Add the espresso, the peppermint extract, the liqueur, and the simple syrup into the chocolate mixture and stir to combine.
Step 6 –Pour the chocolate mixture evenly into four serving mugs.
Step 7 –Serve topped with the whipped cream, the crushed peppermint candy, and the chocolate syrup.