Peppermint Hot Cocoa with Vanilla Whipped Cream Arbequina EVOO

The coziest drink of the season. Everyone loves peppermint hot cocoa, but elevate yours by adding a drizzle of California Olive Ranch Arbequina extra virgin olive oil for not only an added richness in flavor but for added health benefits too. With fresh, homemade whipped cream, shaved mint chocolate and crushed candy cane you may just have the fanciest hot chocolate in town.

Ingredients

For Hot Cocoa

4 cups your milk of choice
4 tablespoons cocoa or cacao powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1-2 drops of peppermint extract

For Whipped Cream

1 pint of heavy whipping cream
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 tablespoons pure maple syrup or cane sugar

Toppings

California Olive Ranch Arbequina EVOO
Candy Cane, whole or crushed
Mint chocolate- shaved

Instructions

In a medium sized sauce pan, add all hot cocoa ingredients and gently bring to a boil over medium heat while whisking often.
To the bowl of a stand mixer, add in all whipped cream ingredients and whip on high speed until peaks form, for about 4 minutes.
Pour hot cocoa into your mugs and top with fresh whipped cream, shaved mint chocolate, candy cane and a drizzle of California Olive Ranch Arbequina EVOO.