Peppermint Mochas + Reindeer Donuts

What’s better than a warm cup of coffee that’s been spiked with chocolate, peppermint and whip cream? A warm cup of coffee that’s been spiked with chocolate, peppermint, whip cream and a reindeer donut on the side :) I’m excited to share two recipes today in partnership with Hamilton Beach’s new FlexBrew  – we’ve been testing out yet another coffee machine but this one takes the cake for multitasking + saving counter space! 

The FlexBrew can brew both pots of coffee AND coffee pods which is perfect for us. I love to make a pot of coffee in the morning when Austin and I are both drinking coffee and then I often like to have an afternoon cup later in the day, when I really would like the convenience of just using a pod. So we’ve done away with our other machines and are giving this one a whirl! I’ve been making Peppermint Mocha’s as a treat in the afternoon, they are so indulgent but not as bad as getting one at a coffee shop — plus it’s the holiday season after all. I couldn’t tell you the last time I had any flavored coffee drink outside of my home! They are just so much better when you make them yourself. Here’s how I make my Peppermint Mocha’s: 

1. Brew 1 cup of coffee (I like Trader Joe’s seasonal coffee pods and they are also a great price)
2. While the coffee is hot stir in 1-2tbs of dark hot chocolate depending on how strong you want the chocolate flavor. 
3. Top off with any desired milk or creamer (I often just drink mine black). 
4. Using a toothpick, swirl in a taste of peppermint oil (you’ll want to use an edible oil not a regular essential oil. I use Peppermint Vitality Oil from Young Living). Peppermint oil is so strong that 1 drop would be way to much for a cup of coffee, so just putting a tiny bit on a toothpick allows you to add much less. 
5. Top with optional whipped cream + crushed peppermint sprinkles. 

 

How cute are these guys? I saw the idea on Best Friends For Frosting and had to re-create them for Flora’s birthday breakfast. I made these easy vegan donuts and then we added red candy melts for the nose, pipe cleaner antlers and candy eyes! Just use a little frosting from a tube (found in the baking aisle at the grocery store) to attach the eyes.  We got the candy melts at Michael’s! 

Thanks to Hamilton Beach for sponsoring this post!