Christmas Cocktail & Cocoa Recipes from Balducci's

Experience the taste of Christmas in a single sip. Every year, Balducci’s in Alexandria, McLean, and Bethesda serves festive gourmet winter beverages to help make your season merry and bright. This year, make your home a winter wonderland with Balducci’s Corporate Executive Chef Jason Miller’s recipes for rich, creamy Peppermint Hot Chocolate and the Candy Cane Latte, a delicious holiday treat with peppermint, white chocolate and real whipped cream!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Yield: 1 Mug

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 6 peppermint candies, crushed
• 6 oz. dark chocolate chips
• A few drops of almond extract (optional)

Procedure:

1. Combine milk, cream, and crushed candies in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk occasionally until candies are dissolved, about 4 minutes.
2. Add dark chocolate chips and whisk until it is completely melted and well incorporated, add in optional almond extract. Serve immediately.

Want an extra kick? Substitute half of the crushed peppermint candies for a shot of Peppermint Schnapps to make our “Hard Peppermint Hot Chocolate.”

Candy Cane Latte

Yields: 1 Mug

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of freshly made espresso
• 1/8 tsp. cherry extract
• 1/8 tsp. peppermint extract
• 6 oz. steamed milk
• 1/4 cup freshly whipped cream, as a garnish
• 1 small candy cane, as a garnish

Procedure:

1. Combine brewed espresso with cherry and peppermint extracts and steamed milk.
2. Garnish with whipped cream and use the candy cane to stir and let melt into the drink.

If you’re looking for more suggestions, please visit our website for recipes, tips and foodie treats: http//www.balduccis.com