Name: Peppermint Stirrers
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 Small/Mini Candy Canes; 4 Crushed peppermint; 8 Standard Regular Sized Marshmallows; 1/2 cup Chocolate Melting wafers

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There’s something extra fun about making your own hot cocoa stirrers—and these Peppermint Marshmallow Stirrers are the perfect holiday kitchen activity. Kids get to dip, roll, and create their own little treat that melts right into a warm mug of cocoa. They’re quick, simple, and make adorable gifts for friends, teachers, and neighbors.

Holiday Peppermint Stirrers at www.chefkimihou.com

Skill Level, Time, and Supervision

Skill Level: Ages 6+ with light supervision
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Why You’ll Love Making This

• Kids get hands-on practice dipping, rolling, and assembling
• Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or cozy nights in
• No baking required—just melt, dip, and enjoy
• A great way for younger kids to practice fine motor coordination
• Kids love seeing their creations melt into hot cocoa

What You’ll Need

Equipment

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

Holiday Peppermint Stirrers at www.tchefkimihou.com

• 8 small or mini candy canes
• 8 regular marshmallows
• ½ cup chocolate melting wafers
• 4 crushed peppermints

How to Make Peppermint Marshmallow Stirrers

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Place the chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl and heat according to package instructions. Stir until smooth.

👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Tip: Younger kids may need help melting and stirring the chocolate safely.

Step 2: Assemble the Stirrers

Press one mini candy cane into the top of each marshmallow. Make sure each one stands upright without wobbling.

Step 3: Prepare the Peppermint

Crush the peppermints and pour them onto a plate or piece of parchment paper.

Step 4: Dip the Marshmallows

Hold the candy cane like a handle and dip each marshmallow into the melted chocolate. Let any extra chocolate drip back into the bowl.

Step 5: Add the Peppermint

Roll the sides of each chocolate-covered marshmallow in the crushed peppermint. Leave the bottom clean if you want them to stand upright on a serving tray.

🍽️ Chef Tip: For cleaner edges, tap the marshmallow gently against the side of the bowl before rolling in peppermint.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Place the stirrers on parchment and allow them to dry for 20–30 minutes. If you need a faster set, chill them in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use high-quality melting wafers for the smoothest chocolate coating.
• Make extra—kids always want to eat one while they decorate the rest.
• Bag each stirrer in a small treat bag with ribbon for an easy gift.

Make It Your Own

• Use colored candy melts for festive themes.
• Try rolling in crushed cookies instead of peppermint.
• Add holiday sprinkles for a fun twist.

Tips for Grown-Ups Assisting

• Let kids do the dipping and rolling, but you handle hot chocolate and microwaving.
• Encourage kids to decorate each marshmallow differently—it sparks creativity.
• Keep a damp cloth nearby for sticky hands.

FAQ from Chefs-In-Training

Can I use big candy canes?
Mini candy canes work best, but full-size ones can be broken in half.

Can we make these ahead?
Yes! They stay fresh for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Does it matter which chocolate I use?
Melting wafers are easiest for kids because they melt evenly.

What Makes This Recipe a Winner

These Peppermint Marshmallow Stirrers are festive, fast, and totally kid-approved. They bring creativity, confidence, and holiday joy right to your kitchen table—and they’re the perfect finishing touch to a cozy mug of hot cocoa.