Healthy Holidays Continue from Fitness Elements! Peppermint Hot Chocolate Anyone?

Peppermint Stick Hot Chocolate

Make a traditional cup of hot chocolate fit for the holidays by serving it with candy canes. The candy cane is not only for decoration – it also adds flavor to the hot chocolate as it melts in the mug.

For an adults-only party, consider spiking this drink with mint liqueur, such as peppermint schnapps or crème de menthe.

Yield: 12 servings (serving size: 3/4 cup hot chocolate, 1 candy cane, 1 tablespoon marshmallows)

Ingredients

• 8 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 12 candy canes
• 3/4 cup miniature marshmallows
• Whole grated nutmeg (optional)

Preparation

Combine milk, brown sugar, cocoa, vanilla, nutmeg, and semisweet chocolate in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook 25 minutes or until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth, stirring occasionally. Serve with candy canes and marshmallows. Garnish with whole grated nutmeg, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories:

194 (18% from fat)

Fat:

3.9g (sat 2.3g,mono 0.0g,poly 0.0g)

Protein:

7g

Carbohydrate:

34g

Fiber:

0.8g

Cholesterol:

10mg

Iron:

0.6mg

Sodium:

96mg

Calcium:

32mg

What a Way to open up and Breathe Peppermint is known for that! Enjoy my Health & Fitness Friends! Have a Great day!