Winter Break Recipe
Make Winter Break Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Hot Chocolate Base
Spiced Cinnamon Whip
Toppings & Garnish
Method
Hot Chocolate Base
- 1
Warm milk and cream
In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine 4 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Warm gently, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is steaming and small bubbles form around the edges but not boiling (about 5–7 minutes).
- 2
Bloom cocoa and sugar
Whisk in 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar until smooth and dissolved. This helps avoid lumps and builds chocolate flavor.
- 3
Add chopped chocolate
Reduce heat to low. Add 6 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate to the warm milk mixture. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is glossy and smooth (2–3 minutes).
- 4
Season and finish
Stir in 1 teaspoon fine sea salt and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired. Keep on very low heat, whisking occasionally, while you prepare the whipped topping. Do not let the mixture boil.
Spiced Cinnamon Whip
- 5
Chill equipment
For best results, chill a metal mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before whipping.
- 6
Whip cream with spices
Pour 1 cup heavy cream into the chilled bowl. Add 2 teaspoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional). Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip until soft peaks form — the cream should hold shape but still be pillowy (about 2–3 minutes).
- 7
Assemble & Serve
- 8
Portion the hot chocolate: Pour the hot chocolate base into 6 warmed mugs, distributing evenly (about 1 cup per mug).
- 9
- 10
Finish with toppings: Sprinkle mini marshmallows (about 2 tablespoons per mug), ⅓ teaspoon crushed candied ginger (optional) and a few chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream. Dust lightly with 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon per mug for an aromatic finish.
- 11
Serve immediately: Serve the Winter Break hot chocolate with a spoon and a small cookie or biscotti if desired. Warn guests that the drink will be hot.