Is Peppermint Hot Chocolate the Coziest Midlife Treat of the Season?

Recipe

There’s something magical about peppermint hot chocolate during the holidays. It feels nostalgic, cozy, and indulgent, but this version is also gentle on midlife digestion, supportive of hormone balance, and completely dairy-free. If traditional hot chocolate leaves you bloated or sluggish, this recipe gives you all the comfort without the crash.

Peppermint hot chocolate is one of my favorite seasonal drinks to recommend to my midlife ladies because it blends festive flavors with ingredients that support energy, metabolism, and mood. It’s a small ritual that feels grounding during a busy season.

Why This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Works for Midlife Women

  • It’s dairy-free, which helps reduce bloating and inflammation.
  • It supports digestion during a season of heavier meals.
  • It offers a cozy ritual that helps regulate stress and cortisol.
  • It satisfies holiday cravings without the sugar spike.

This is the kind of holiday treat that feels indulgent but still aligned with your wellness goals.

Make It a Holiday Ritual

Sip it while wrapping gifts, watching holiday movies, or winding down after a long day. A warm mug of peppermint hot chocolate can be a grounding moment in a season that often feels rushed.

Peppermint hot chocolate in a mug made with dairy-free, hormone-friendly ingredients.
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Peppermint hot chocolate in a mug made with dairy-free, hormone-friendly ingredients.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

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  • Author: Lora Ulrich
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

A creamy, dairy-free peppermint hot chocolate that feels indulgent but stays midlife-friendly and hormone-supportive for the holiday season.


Ingredients

Scale

2 cups unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk

2 tablespoons unsweetened cacao powder

1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of sea salt

Optional: dairy-free whipped cream, crushed peppermint, shaved dark chocolate, or candy for garnishing


Instructions

1. Warm the almond or coconut milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.

2. Whisk in the cacao powder until smooth.

3. Add maple syrup, peppermint extract, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt.

4. Continue whisking until everything is warm and silky.

5. Taste and adjust sweetness or peppermint strength.

6. Pour into mugs and top with dairy-free whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for a festive touch.


Why These Ingredients Support Midlife Wellness

Cacao for mood and energy

Rich in magnesium and antioxidants that support stress resilience and steady energy.

Coconut or almond milk for hormone-friendly creaminess

Dairy can be inflammatory for some women in perimenopause. These alternatives keep things light and bloat-free.

Peppermint for digestion and calm

Peppermint naturally soothes the gut and supports digestion, which can be especially helpful during holiday meals.

Want More Recipes That Love You Back?

Menopause health coach Lora Ulrich

Dive into my free metabolism-boosting recipe collection, where you’ll find meals designed to reduce inflammation, support hormonal balance, and nourish your body with every bite.

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