Description
This Healthy Hot Chocolate recipe offers a creamy, dairy-free twist on a classic winter favorite, using light coconut milk and unsweetened almond milk sweetened naturally with maple syrup. Perfect for a cozy treat that’s rich, smooth, and lightly flavored with vanilla and a hint of sea salt, it’s a nutritious and comforting beverage for chilly days.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 cup light coconut milk (from the can)
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Sweeteners and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (I use Ghirardelli’s 100% unsweetened cocoa powder)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add light coconut milk, unsweetened almond milk, vanilla extract, pure maple syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of sea salt into a small pot. Whisk vigorously to blend all ingredients smoothly and to eliminate any lumps of cocoa powder.
- Heat Gently: Place the pot over medium-low heat and warm the mixture carefully, whisking occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent burning the almond milk, which could impart an off-flavor. Heat until the hot chocolate becomes steamy and thoroughly warmed, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the pot from heat and pour the hot chocolate evenly into two mugs. Top with your choice of whipped cream, dairy-free whipped cream, marshmallows, or vegan marshmallows. For extra flair, add chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
- Do not boil the hot chocolate to avoid burning the almond milk, which changes the flavor.
- Use a whisk to fully combine the cocoa powder and prevent lumps.
- Optional toppings like dairy-free whipped cream or vegan marshmallows make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk but adjust sweetness as needed.
- This recipe yields two servings, perfect for sharing or a cozy solo treat over two days.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
