Healthy Hot Chocolate
Cozy up with this vegan and dairy-free homemade Healthy Hot Chocolate that’s rich, indulgent and made with just a few simple ingredients.
We’ve been making this recipe every night over Thanksgiving break – it’s too good!
There’s nothing like a warm cup of homemade hot chocolate when it’s cold outside. This is genuinely the best hot cocoa recipe. It’s rich, indulgent, creamy, perfectly sweetened and perfectly spiced, all the while being made with healthy, better-for-you ingredients (much better than that store-bought packaged stuff).
This healthy homemade hot chocolate is vegan, dairy-free and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. Everyone needs a go-to hot chocolate recipe, and I hope this one will become yours!
Hot Cocoa vs Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is made with melted chocolate, giving it a rich, creamy texture and deep flavor, while hot cocoa uses cocoa powder for a lighter, sweeter drink. This recipe combines both to create a perfectly balanced cup that’s creamy and full-bodied yet smooth and sweet.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Hot Chocolate
- Made with better-for-you ingredients. This recipe is dairy-free and naturally sweetened. Say goodbye to Swiss Miss packets that are loaded with sugar, oils, dairy and ingredients you can’t pronounce.
- Amazing flavor. Rich, indulgent and delicious. It tastes SO much better than Swiss Miss. My little sister much prefers my hot chocolate!
- Easy-to-make. All you need are a few simple ingredients and 10 minutes of your time.
Healthy Hot Chocolate Ingredients
Scroll down to the recipe card to get the full recipe with measurements.
- Non-Dairy Milk – any non-dairy milk will work but I recommend using soy milk as it is the thickest and lends to the best flavor.
- Cocoa Powder – use your favorite cocoa powder as this will affect the chocolate flavor. I typically use Trader Joe’s cocoa powder.
- Dark Chocolate – grab your favorite chocolate bar and break off 2 squares to use in this recipe. I always use the brand Hu Chocolate – it’s made with clean, organic ingredients that are vegan, gluten free, and refined sugar free. You can shop with my code booboo for a discount.Chocolate chips will also work, you’ll need about 2 tablespoons.
- Maple Syrup – to add some natural sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – to add a depth of flavor.
- Cinnamon Stick – this adds a delicious depth of flavor – don’t skip out!
- Whole Cloves – this adds a warm spice and compliments the chocolate flavors so well – don’t skip out on this either!
- Salt – just a pinch to bring out all the flavors.
How to Make Homemade Hot Chocolate
- Combine all the ingredients to a small saucepan and place over low-medium heat.
- Whisk continuously while heating over low heat for about 8-10 minutes, and the chocolate has completely dissolved. Don’t let it boil!
- Remove from heat and remove the cinnamon stick and cloves. Pour into mugs and top with desired toppings. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cup of Hot Chocolate
- Keep the heat on low. We don’t want the hot chocolate to boil, so keep the heat on low and watch it carefully.
- Whisk continuously. Creamy hot chocolate is the goal here, so keep whisking to remove any clumps and make it as smooth as possible.
- Taste and adjust. If you want it a little sweeter, add more maple syrup. If you want it spiced more, add another clove. To me, this recipe is perfect as-is, but adjust to your preference!
How to Serve Hot Chocolate
I love serving my cup of hot chocolate topped with non-dairy cool whip, shaved dark chocolate and a cinnamon stick. Nothing beats it! You could also serve your homemade hot cocoa topped with:
- Non-dairy cool whip or whipped cream
- Shaved dark chocolate
- Vegan mini marshmallows – I like to use Dandie’s vegan mini marshmallows.
- Cinnamon stick
What To Serve with Homemade Hot Chocolate
Nothing beats a cozy cup of homemade hot chocolate paired with classic chocolate chip cookies. For the ultimate hot chocolate experience, try making my hot chocolate cookie cups—they’re the perfect treat to complete your hot chocolate experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hot chocolate good for you?
Hot chocolate can be a healthy treat when made with clean, simple ingredients like in this recipe! Unlike store-bought packets loaded with additives and refined sugars, this dairy-free version uses pure cocoa powder, dark chocolate, maple syrup, and plant-based milk. Indulge in this creamy and delicious hot chocolate alternative that’s much healthier!
Is hot chocolate better with water or non-dairy milk?
In my opinion, hot chocolate is much better with non-dairy milk, as it makes it creamier and richer. I prefer soy milk for its thickness and flavor, which is closest to real milk. If you’re not vegan, regular dairy milk works well, too!
If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and ★★★★★ star rating below letting me know how you liked it! This helps others find my recipes. I appreciate your support, as always. xo, Megan
Healthy Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 2 cups non-dairy milk
- 2 tablespoons vegan dark chocolate
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 whole cloves
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a small pot and place over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously while heating for about 8-10 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Once it's creamy and steamy, remove from heat. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves.
- Pour into mugs and top with dairy free whipped cream, shaved chocolate and cinnamon stick (or other desired toppings). Enjoy!
Equipment
Notes
- Soy milk is my favorite non-dairy milk to use in this recipe.
- Vegan dark chocolate – I use Hu Chocolate – it’s made with clean, organic ingredients that are vegan, gluten free, and refined sugar free. Use my code BOOBOO for a discount.
Made this hot chocolate recently – it’s one of the best!! So simple and so creamy and delicious. One of my new faves!