Healthy Hot Chocolate

Name: Healthy Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups non-dairy milk; 2 tablespoons dark chocolate; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 whole cloves; pinch salt

by Megan Murphy Updated on Sep 15, 2026

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5 from 3 ratings

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Cozy up with a mug of this healthy hot chocolate that’s rich, creamy, naturally sweetened, and made with just a few simple ingredients. Ready in 10 minutes!

A mug of homemade hot chocolate topped with coconut whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, and chocolate shavings.

We’ve been making this hot chocolate every night over Thanksgiving break. There’s just something so nostalgic about a warm cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter night. Especially alongside a freshly baked batch of gluten-free hot chocolate cookies or a slice of my healthy banana bread.

This homemade hot chocolate is a major upgrade from the store-bought mixes (I’m looking at you, Swiss Miss). It’s rich, creamy, perfectly sweetened, and made with better-for-you ingredients.

Everyone needs a go-to hot chocolate recipe, and I have a feeling this will become yours. And if you like adding flavors to your hot chocolate, you’ll love my gingerbread hot chocolate and peppermint hot chocolate.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Made with better-for-you ingredients
Rich, indulgent flavor
Creamy, smooth, and so chocolatey (my little sister claims it’s way better than Swiss Miss)
Quick and easy
Ready in 10 minutes with just one pot and simple ingredients

Hot Cocoa vs Hot Chocolate

Yes, there’s a difference!

Hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder, making it lighter and sweeter.
Hot chocolate is made with melted chocolate, giving it a richer, creamier texture and deep flavor.

This recipe combines both for the best of both worlds: a slightly thick and rich texture that’s smooth, cozy, and perfectly chocolatey.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is just a recipe overview! Scroll down to the recipe card to get the full recipe with measurements.

Non-Dairy Milk: Any milk works, but I love soy milk for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Cocoa Powder: Use your favorite cocoa powder, particularly a high-quality one, it makes a big difference in the flavor. I like to use Trader Joe’s cocoa powder.
Dark Chocolate: Melt in two squares of your favorite chocolate bar (or 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips) for that rich chocolate flavor.
Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: For warm depth.
Cinnamon Stick: Adds subtle spice and coziness. Don’t skip!!
Whole Cloves: Just two whole cloves add a warm spice and compliments the chocolate flavor so well. Don’t skip out on this either!
Sea Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.

How to Make Healthy Hot Chocolate

Combine the ingredients: Add all ingredients to a small saucepan and place over low-medium heat.
Whisk continuously: Heat for about 8–10 minutes, whisking until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful, don’t let it come to a boil!
Strain and serve: Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves, pour into mugs, and top with your favorite toppings. Sip and enjoy each warm and cozy sip!

Cozy up with this vegan and dairy-free Healthy Hot Chocolate that's rich, indulgent and made with just a few simple ingredients.

Megan’s Tips

Keep the heat low: Slow and gentle heat = creamy, dreamy texture. Don’t let it boil!
Whisk continuously: Creaminess is the goal here, so keep whisking to remove any clumps and make it as smooth as possible.
Taste and adjust: Want it sweeter? Add more maple syrup. Love spice? Toss in an extra clove or dash of cinnamon. For me, this recipe is perfect as-is, but adjust to your preference!

Topping Your Hot Chocolate

I love mine with a dollop of non-dairy whipped cream, shaved dark chocolate, and a cinnamon stick. You can also top your mug with:

vegan whipped cream or coconut whip
mini vegan marshmallows (I use Dandies)
shaved dark chocolate or cacao nibs
dusting of cocoa powder
cinnamon stick

What to Serve with Your Hot Chocolate

Pair your cozy mug with something sweet on the side! Try one of these reader favorites:

a warm slice of my healthy banana bread
freshly baked hot chocolate cookies
one (or two) classic vegan chocolate chip cookies

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! More hot chocolate is always a good idea. Just use a larger saucepan and whisk continuously.

Is hot chocolate good for you?

It can be a healthy treat when made with clean ingredients, like in this recipe! Unlike store-bought packets loaded with additives and refined sugars, this dairy-free version uses cocoa powder, dark chocolate, maple syrup, and plant-based milk.

Is hot chocolate better with water or non-dairy milk?

I definitely say non-dairy milk. It makes it extra creamy and rich. I like to use soy milk for it’s thickness, but almond, oat, or cashew milk all work too. And if you’re not vegan, you can use regular milk, but the dairy-free version tastes just as indulgent.

Enjoy Your Hot Chocolate With…

gluten-free and vegan chocolate chip cookies freshly baked on a baking sheet and sprinkled with flaky sea salt

Vegan & Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

vegan and gluten free peanut butter blossom cookies

Healthy Peanut Butter Blossoms (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Sliced loaf of vegan banana bread topped with chocolate chips and walnuts.

The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

Gluten-free and vegan hot chocolate cookies with chocolate chunks and mini marshmallows, perfect for a festive holiday dessert.

Vegan Hot Chocolate Cookies (Gluten-Free)

If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and ★★★★★ star rating below. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram so I can see your creations!

5 from 3 ratings