Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, add chocolate chips and brown sugar, then pour in the milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop.
Melt Chocolate: Heat gently while whisking so the chocolate melts evenly, about 3–4 minutes. Do not bring to a boil or simmer.
Add Peppermint: Once steam is coming off the surface, remove from the heat and whisk through the peppermint extract, adding less or more to taste.
Create Foam: Whisk vigorously to create a light foam before serving.
Pour & Garnish: Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows, grated chocolate, and optional candy canes. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Store Leftovers: Allow the hot chocolate to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight glass jar or container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan over low-medium heat, whisking to recombine ingredients until hot.
Notes
Make it dairy-free: Use your favorite dairy-free milk.
Store leftovers: Allow the hot chocolate to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight glass jar, such as a mason jar, or a sealed container. Store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Make it in advance: You can also prepare the hot chocolate ahead of time using the same storage method above.
Reheat: In a saucepan on the stovetop over low-medium heat. Be sure to whisk it well to recombine any ingredients that may have settled, heating it up to your preferred temperature.