Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When the weather turns chilly, few things feel more comforting than the cozy combo of peppermint and hot chocolate. These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins bring all the warmth of your favorite winter drink into a fluffy, chocolatey handheld treat. With rich cocoa, sweet chocolate chips, and a cooling burst of peppermint, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing.

Ideal for holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or even a festive dessert, these muffins are easy to make but taste like something straight from a bakery. They’re also great for gifting—just wrap them up in parchment and twine for a seasonal treat everyone will love.

---

What Kind of Peppermint Should I Use?

Peppermint extract is the key to flavoring these muffins without overwhelming the chocolate. A little goes a long way! You can also fold in crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for extra crunch and color. If you’re a fan of strong mint flavor, you can increase the extract slightly—but start small, taste, and adjust.

---

Ingredients for the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)

---

How To Make the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin pan with paper liners or spray with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until well combined. Add in the Greek yogurt, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint (if using). Do not overmix.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 17–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temp—with extra hot cocoa, of course.

---

How to Serve and Store Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins

These muffins are wonderful warm, especially when paired with a mug of hot chocolate or coffee. You can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze for extra sweetness.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—wrap individually and store for up to 2 months. Just thaw and warm slightly before serving.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Peppermint oil is more concentrated than extract, so if using it, reduce the amount significantly—about 1/8 tsp should be enough.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add 1/2 tsp separately.

What kind of chocolate chips are best?

Semi-sweet is great for balance, but dark chocolate works beautifully too. You can also mix in white chocolate for a twist.

Do I need to use Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt adds moisture and tenderness, but you can substitute with sour cream or even buttermilk in a pinch.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Double all the ingredients and bake in batches. These muffins make fantastic gifts or party treats.

---

Want More Muffin Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Muffins, check out these other creative muffin and dessert ideas:

• Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe for a nostalgic flavor with a sugary crust.
• Raspberry Crescent Rolls if you crave fruity morning pastries.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich and festive dessert.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies to brighten up your baking tray.
• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for a holiday classic everyone loves.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add candy canes on top? Try a swirl of marshmallow? Leave your tweaks and baking wins in the comments so we can swap ideas and inspire each other!

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?