Icy Peppermint Hot Chocolate Float

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-04 · Updated 2026-08-04

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are drafted and published.

A winter-inspired twist on classic hot chocolate, topped with a scoop of peppermint ice cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a frosty, indulgent drink. This recipe, ready in about 12 minutes, brings together whole milk, dark cocoa powder, granulated sugar for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 2, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 5 min Cook: 7 min Serves 2 Cocktails cuisine 350 cal/serving

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Ingredients

2 cups whole milk
3 tbsp dark cocoa powder
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 scoops peppermint ice cream
1/2 cup whipped cream
1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder

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Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups whole milk, 3 tablespoons dark cocoa powder, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar over medium heat.
Step 2: Heat the mixture for 5-7 minutes, whisking frequently until the cocoa powder dissolves fully and the hot chocolate is steaming but not boiling.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for added depth.
Step 4: Pour the hot chocolate into two heatproof mugs about 3/4 full.
Step 5: Top each mug with 1 scoop of peppermint ice cream and 1/4 cup whipped cream.
Step 6: Lightly dust each drink with 1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder.
Step 7: Serve immediately with a spoon to enjoy the melting ice cream blending into the hot chocolate.