Ingredients (1 serving)

• 1 shot (1 oz) espresso (or ⅓ cup strong brewed coffee)
  
  

• 1 cup milk (whole, oat, or almond for creaminess)
  
  

• 2 Tbsp dark chocolate chips (or high-quality cocoa powder)
  
  

• 1 tsp pure maple syrup (or honey, for a natural sweetness)
  
  

• ½ tsp peppermint extract (not flavor syrup — keeps it crisp)
  
  

• Whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended)
  
  

• Crushed peppermint candy or cacao nibs (for garnish)
  
  

• Tiny pinch of sea salt (to balance sweetness)
  

Instructions

1. Brew & Melt
   Pull your espresso shot (or brew concentrated coffee). In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium-low heat, whisking in the chocolate chips until melted smooth.
   
   

2. Sweeten & Mintify
   Stir in maple syrup, peppermint extract, and just a pinch of sea salt. Taste-test — you want rich chocolate first, cool peppermint second.
   
   

3. Combine
   Pour the hot chocolate-mint mixture into a mug. Add the espresso shot and stir gently.
   
   

4. Crown the Cup
   Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy or cacao nibs, and maybe a chocolate drizzle if you’re feeling wild.