Name: Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins: Your Cozy Holiday Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with whole wheat flour.); 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Carob powder can be used for a unique twist.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Reduce for a less sweet option.); 2 teaspoons baking powder (Make sure it’s fresh for best results.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Using sea salt can add a different taste dimension.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Aids in rising and helps balance acidity from cocoa.); 1 cup buttermilk (Can substitute with milk plus vinegar if needed.); 1/2 cup vegetable oil (Melted butter can impart a richer flavor.); 2 large eggs (Opt for free-range for better taste.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Essential for optimal flavor.); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (Try almond extract for a different flavor.); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Optional; dark chocolate chips can be used for bolder taste.); 1 cup powdered sugar (Adjust with milk for desired consistency.); 2 tablespoons milk (Can use non-dairy milk as a substitute.); 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (Be cautious not to overdo it!)

The first hint of winter brings a wave of nostalgia—fuzzy socks, twinkling lights, and warm, comforting flavors. One of my favorite ways to embrace the festive season is with these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins. They’re the ultimate blend of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to for busy mornings or unexpected guests. Topped with a luscious peppermint glaze that elevates them to a whole new level, these muffins are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone in your home eagerly reaching for more. Curious about how to bring this delightful holiday treat to your kitchen? Keep reading!

Why are these muffins a holiday must-try?

Irresistible Combination: Rich chocolate mingles beautifully with cool peppermint, creating a festive flavor that captivates both young and old alike.
Quick to Make: Ready in just over 30 minutes, these muffins make for an effortless yet impressive addition to any spread.
Perfectly Topped: A delicious peppermint glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that’s not only beautiful but elevates the overall taste.
Versatile Delight: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these muffins fit perfectly into any occasion, from cozy mornings to holiday gatherings.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves them! These muffins are the perfect way to engage friends and family in the festive spirit without much effort. For more delicious holiday treats, check out my recipe for Raspberry Chocolate Mousse or try the delightful Orange Pecan Muffins.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffin Ingredients

For the Muffins

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the muffins; substitute whole wheat flour for a denser texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; carob powder can be used for a unique twist.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins; reduce for a less sweet option.
Baking powder – Essential for rising; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; using sea salt can add a different taste dimension.
Baking soda – Aids in rising and helps balance acidity from the cocoa.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; substitute with milk plus vinegar if needed.
Vegetable oil – Keeps the muffins moist; melted butter can impart a richer flavor.
Large eggs – Binds ingredients and contributes moisture; opt for free-range for better taste.
Vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor; don’t skip it for optimal results.
Peppermint extract – Provides that refreshing minty kick; try almond extract for a different flavor.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional) – Adds extra chocolatey goodness; dark chocolate chips can be used for a bolder taste.

For the Peppermint Glaze

Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet and glossy icing; adjust with milk for desired consistency.
Milk – Helps achieve the right glaze texture; can use non-dairy milk as a substitute.
Peppermint extract – Enhances the minty flavor of the glaze; be cautious not to overdo it!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy release after baking. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly fluffy Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins that will impress your family and friends.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until they are evenly combined. This mixture should appear light and fluffy, signaling that you’re creating a solid base for your muffins. Getting this step right will contribute to the perfect texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, large eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth. The consistency should be creamy, resembling a rich batter. This mixture will help impart moisture and delightful flavor to your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins, so take your time to blend it well.

Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. If you desire an extra touch of chocolate, gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips for that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. This will allow room for the muffins to rise beautifully while baking. A well-filled muffin cup is the key to achieving that delightful dome shape on top of your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. This is the moment to savor the incredible aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 7: Prepare the Peppermint Glaze
While your muffins are cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and additional peppermint extract in a small bowl until smooth. The glaze should achieve a thick, drizzling consistency; feel free to adjust with more milk as needed. This sweet topping is what sets your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins apart.

Step 8: Glaze the Muffins
Once the muffins have cooled for a few minutes, drizzle the peppermint glaze generously over the top of each muffin. For an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling crushed candy canes on top. This finishing touch adds a beautiful visual appeal and an extra crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft muffins.

What to Serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Warm up your breakfast table with delightful accompaniments that perfectly match the cozy, festive spirit of these muffins.

Rich Hot Cocoa: The classic pairing of hot cocoa elevates your experience, echoing the chocolatey goodness in the muffins and adding warmth.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus cuts through the sweetness, offering a refreshing contrast that brightens your morning. You’ll love the way the freshness compliments the rich flavors of the muffins.
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla or mint yogurt adds creaminess that balances sweetness while introducing a delightful tang to each bite.
Candied Peppermint Sticks: For a fun, whimsical touch, these add an extra layer of peppermint flavor while offering a delightful crunch alongside the soft muffins.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai enhance the festive flavors of peppermint, creating a soothing drink that pairs beautifully with each muffin. Explore contrasting tastes that will keep your guests cozy.
Gingerbread Cookies: Traditional gingerbread cookies provide a spiced kick that complements the chocolate and peppermint while adding a nostalgic holiday touch.
Milk or Dairy Alternatives: A simple glass of cold milk or your favorite dairy alternative offers a creamy counterpart, perfect for dunking and enjoying the flavors together.
Peppermint Tea: For a lighter option with soothing qualities, peppermint tea can refresh your palate while complementing the existing peppermint notes in the muffins.
Chocolate Dipped Marshmallows: To enhance that hot cocoa vibes, serve chocolate-dipped marshmallows for an indulgent sweet treat alongside the muffins.

These pairing ideas will help create a spreading feast that brings warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to ensure muffins are fluffy, avoiding a dense texture.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, guaranteeing great results.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow muffins to cool slightly to prevent the peppermint glaze from melting, ensuring a beautiful finish.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to play with different extracts or chocolate types, like dark chocolate chips for extra richness in your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins.
Measure Precisely: Accurately measuring ingredients ensures consistent results each time you bake these festive treats.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Room Temperature: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy them warm for a delightful breakfast or snack!

Fridge: For longer freshness, store muffins in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Freezer: Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.

Reheating: Reheat muffins by placing them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. A quick warm-up revives the fluffy texture and the delightful peppermint flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor. You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance; just mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This ensures that your muffins are just as delicious and fluffy, while also allowing you to whip them up quickly in the morning. Additionally, once baked, the muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply warm them in the oven for that fresh-baked fragrance before finishing with the peppermint glaze. Enjoy your festive morning treat with minimal effort!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins Variations

Get ready to make your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins uniquely yours with a dash of creativity and fun flavors!

Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for almond or oat milk mixed with vinegar for a vegan-friendly alternative.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and a flavor boost that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and peppermint.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the batter for a delightful warmth that balances the minty freshness.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate mini marshmallows or chopped dried cherries for a sweet, chewy surprise in every bite.
Extract Experiments: Try using orange extract instead of peppermint for a refreshing twist reminiscent of holiday citrus.
Chocolate Overload: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with rich dark chocolate chips for an intense chocolatey experience.
Minty Delight: Fold in crushed peppermint candies into the batter for an extra burst of mint flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these muffins suitable for gluten-intolerant friends.

Feel free to explore these variations to elevate your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins! And if you’re in the mood for other festive treats, try my delightful recipe for Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread or satisfy your cravings with Chocolate Pumpkin Butter Cups. Happy baking!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality peppermint extract for the best flavor. Look for pure extracts without additives; this ensures a fresh and vibrant minty taste. Generally, using about 1 teaspoon per batch will create a delightful peppermint flavor without being overpowering. You can also do a taste test with a drop to find your perfect balance!

What’s the best way to store leftover muffins?
Very! To keep your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, reheating in the microwave before enjoying. This ensures they stay soft and delicious!

Can I freeze these muffins for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your muffins, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, labeling it with the date. They can be enjoyed for up to 2 months! Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a cozy treat!

What should I do if my muffins turn out dense?
Oh no! If your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins turn out dense, this often happens due to overmixing the batter. To remedy this, next time, mix just until the ingredients are combined—lumps are okay! Additionally, make sure your baking powder is fresh, as expired baking powder will not provide adequate lift. Enjoy the process, and remember, even imperfect muffins can be delightful!

Are these muffins safe for dogs?
The more the merrier! However, it’s important to note that these muffins contain ingredients like chocolate and sugar, which can be harmful to dogs. It’s always best to avoid giving pets baked goods that have chocolate or sugar. If you’re looking for pet-friendly treats, consider baking plain muffins without chocolate or using dog-safe ingredients instead!