If you’re looking to cozy up with a festive twist on your daily coffee, the Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe is just the ticket. This delightful concoction blends rich, robust Nespresso coffee with the sweet, creamy comfort of melted marshmallows and a refreshing burst of peppermint. Topped with fluffy peppermint whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, this latte feels like a warm, holiday hug in a mug. Whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself on a chilly afternoon, this recipe elevates your coffee experience into something truly magical.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With only a handful of ingredients, this Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe makes creating a café-worthy drink at home wonderfully simple. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that beautiful wintry aesthetic.
- 2 cups Nespresso coffee: Provides a rich, aromatic base to complement the sweetness and peppermint flavor.
- 1 teaspoon crushed candy canes: Adds a crunchy texture and enhances the peppermint kick with a festive touch.
- 2 candy canes: Perfect for stirring and as a charming garnish.
- 1/2 cup half & half cream (10%): Brings a smooth creaminess that melts with the marshmallows, creating the perfect latte body.
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows: Melts into the warm cream, lending sweetness and that delightful marshmallow texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract: Infuses the drink with a refreshing peppermint flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (35%): Whipped to a fluffy consistency to top the latte with soft, airy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon icing sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream while enhancing its smoothness.
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (for whipped cream): Adds an extra burst of peppermint in the creamy topping.
How to Make Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe
Step 1: Brew Your Coffee
Start by brewing 2 cups of your favorite Nespresso coffee, piping hot and ready to be transformed. The freshly brewed coffee is the foundation of this latte, so make sure it’s strong and steamy to cut through the creamy sweetness that follows.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows in Cream
Gently heat the half & half cream over medium heat until you start to see bubbles forming around the edges—a sign that it’s hot but not boiling. Add the mini marshmallows and whisk continuously until they melt completely into the cream, creating a silky, sweet base that will mingle beautifully with the coffee.
Step 3: Flavor with Peppermint
Remove the cream and marshmallow mixture from the heat and carefully stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This step infuses that unmistakable wintery freshness that makes this latte so special.
Step 4: Whip the Topping
Pour the cold heavy whipping cream into a chilled bowl and whip it until it just begins to thicken. Add the icing sugar and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, then continue whipping until you reach your preferred fluffy consistency. This topping will be the crowning glory that nudges this latte from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 5: Assemble Your Latte
Pour the warm peppermint marshmallow creamer into your hot brewed coffee, giving it a gentle stir to combine. Next, dollop or pipe the peppermint whipped cream generously on top—this is where the latte really starts to look irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish with Candy Canes
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes right over the whipped cream, then place a whole candy cane on the side of your mug. These final touches add a playful crunch and make your Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe shine with holiday spirit.
How to Serve Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the crushed and whole candy canes, you can also consider a light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra decadent touch. These simple additions create inviting visual appeal and amp up the flavor profile wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair your peppermint marshmallow latte with seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies, shortbread, or even a warm slice of cinnamon-spiced cake. The subtle sweetness and spice of these sides harmonize perfectly with the creamy minty latte, turning your coffee break into a festive celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Use clear glass mugs to showcase the layers of coffee, marshmallow cream, and whipped topping. For an extra-special presentation, serve on a festive tray with a small vase of pine branches or holiday ornaments nearby. Handing this drink to a guest feels like delivering a joyful, handcrafted gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover peppermint marshmallow creamer or whipped cream, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume the creamer within two days for the best freshness, and use the whipped cream within a day to keep its fluffy texture.
Freezing
While the whipped cream does not freeze well due to texture loss, you can freeze the peppermint marshmallow creamer in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw it gently in the fridge and whisk before reheating to bring back its smooth consistency.
Reheating
Reheat the peppermint marshmallow creamer gently on low heat to avoid scorching or curdling. Stir frequently until warm and smooth, then add it back to freshly brewed coffee for an effortless second round of this cozy drink.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of Nespresso?
Absolutely! Any strong brewed coffee will work well in this Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe. The key is to ensure it’s freshly brewed and hot so it blends beautifully with the creamy marshmallow mixture.
Is peppermint extract necessary or can I use fresh peppermint?
Peppermint extract provides a strong, consistent flavor with no added moisture, which is perfect in this recipe. Fresh peppermint leaves can be used for garnish but may not infuse the drink with the same intensity.
Can I make this drink vegan?
You can substitute the half & half and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like oat or coconut milk and coconut cream, respectively. Just ensure your marshmallows are vegan-friendly as many traditional ones contain gelatin.
How sweet is the latte? Can I adjust sweetness?
The sweetness mainly comes from the marshmallows and icing sugar in the whipped cream, but you can easily adjust by adding more or less icing sugar depending on your taste. The peppermint flavor remains bright even if you reduce sweetness.
Can I prepare parts of this latte ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Prepare the peppermint marshmallow creamer a few hours ahead and keep it warm or refrigerated to reheat before serving. Whip the cream fresh just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully comforting about the Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe that instantly lifts your spirits. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and minty flavors that warm you from the inside out. I truly hope you try making this cozy beverage soon—it’s sure to become a favorite way to celebrate the season or brighten any chilly day.
Print
Peppermint Marshmallow Latte Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peppermint Marshmallow Latte is a festive and creamy coffee treat perfect for the holiday season. Combining the rich flavor of freshly brewed Nespresso coffee with a smooth peppermint marshmallow creamer and topped with a fluffy peppermint whipped cream, this latte offers a delightful balance of sweetness and refreshing mint. Garnished with crushed candy canes and a whole candy cane stirrer, it’s both visually appealing and deliciously indulgent, ideal for cozy mornings or special holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For Coffee and Creamer
- 2 cups Nespresso coffee
- 1/2 cup half & half cream (10%)
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon crushed candy canes (for garnish)
- 2 candy canes (for garnish)
For Peppermint Whipped Cream
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (35%)
- 1 tablespoon icing sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Brew Coffee: Brew 2 cups of Nespresso coffee and keep it hot to ensure the latte stays warm upon serving.
- Heat Half & Half: Pour the half & half cream into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until bubbles appear around the edges, but do not let it boil.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the warm half & half and whisk continuously until the marshmallows have completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Peppermint Extract: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the marshmallow creamer mixture, then remove from heat to prevent burning.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Sweeten and Flavor Cream: Add the icing sugar and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract to the heavy cream and continue whipping until it reaches your desired consistency, forming soft peaks.
- Assemble Latte: Pour the peppermint marshmallow creamer into the hot Nespresso coffee, stirring gently to combine.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spoon or pipe the peppermint whipped cream on top of the latte for a creamy finish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the whipped cream and place a whole candy cane on the side of the cup as a festive stirrer.
Notes
- Use good quality Nespresso coffee pods for the best flavor.
- Adjust the peppermint extract quantity based on how strong you want the mint flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute half & half and heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the whipped cream before it melts.
- Crushed candy canes can be gently crushed using a rolling pin in a sealed bag for safety.
