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Lightened-Up Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bombs – Easy Homemade Recipe

lightened-up peppermint hot cocoa bombs - featured image

These lightened-up peppermint hot cocoa bombs cut the sugar by half, sneak in a bit of protein, and use real peppermint flavor. They’re the perfect cozy winter treat that feels indulgent but is actually pretty sensible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup powder or coconut sugar
  • 1 tablespoon collagen peptides or powdered milk (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (pure, not mint)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Crushed sugar-free peppermint candies (or regular)
  • 1–2 tablespoons extra melted chocolate (for sealing)

Instructions

  1. Melt the chocolate: Add dark chocolate chips and coconut oil to a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until completely smooth.
  2. Line the molds: Using a pastry brush or small spoon, paint a thin, even layer of melted chocolate inside each cavity of a silicone half-sphere mold. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until firm.
  3. Make the cocoa mix: In a small bowl, stir together unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup powder (or coconut sugar), collagen peptides, peppermint extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Set aside.
  4. Remove the shells: Gently flex the silicone mold to pop out the chocolate shells. Place half of the shells on a clean plate with the open side facing up.
  5. Fill the bombs: Spoon about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of the cocoa mix into each shell. Tap gently to settle the powder.
  6. Seal the bombs: Warm a small plate in the microwave for 20 seconds. Press the rim of an empty shell onto the warm plate to melt the edge slightly, then place it on top of a filled shell, pressing gently to seal. Use leftover melted chocolate to fill any gaps.
  7. Decorate: Drizzle melted chocolate over each sealed bomb and immediately sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
  8. Make your drink: Heat 8-10 ounces of milk until steaming (not boiling). Place one bomb in a mug and pour hot milk over it. Stir and enjoy.

Notes

Tempering chocolate is optional but gives a satisfying snap. Don’t overfill molds; thin layers work best. Cracked shells can be patched with melted chocolate or crumbled for toppings. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cocoa bombs, peppermint hot cocoa, lightened up hot cocoa, healthy hot chocolate, winter treat, homemade hot cocoa bombs