Frugal Friday: peppermint hot chocolate recipe

My sister and I adore the peppermint hot chocolate served at Starbucks. At around $3 per cup, though, I've been experimenting with ways to make a yummy, quick equivalent at home.

My favorite hot chocolate mix is a dark chocolate organic fair trade can of mix found at Trader Joe's. I haven't spotted it there this year yet, so I've been working with Swiss Miss packets since I'm too lazy to make some from scratch.

Here is a recipe that will score you a cup of delicious peppermint hot chocolate for less than 50 cents per serving. Enjoy!

Mel's Peppermint Hot Chocolate

1 packet of hot chocolate, any variety

10 ounces boiling water

4 ounces of milk, any variety (I've tried vanilla soy and skim; any milk adds some necessary creaminess!)

3 drops of peppermint extract

crushed peppermint candies or candy cane, sprinkling of marshmallows or spoonful of Cool Whip, optional

You'll want to use a large mug for this one - it's a generous serving or enough for one mom and one toddler's small sippy cup. Add ingredients and stir.

* NOTE: A little peppermint extract goes a long way, so be sure to use a medicine dropper or pour the extract on a spoon before mixing it in. Too much extract ruins the drink.