We haven’t had much snow since we moved (or any!) but back in the day the kids loved playing outside for hours when it snowed. There’s something sacred about coming out of the cold into a mug of steaming cocoa whipped cream. However, I wanted to find an alternative to the traditional hot cocoa mix loaded with refined sugar and powdered milk.
So I decided to make a healthy, simple, completely homemade version that was even richer in flavor than what I grew up with. This isn’t just a hot chocolate mix recipe, it’s real comfort food in a mug. And when you know how to make hot chocolate, packages are not the same.
Thanks to this recipe, I’m always happy when my kids ask for cocoa after hours. This became our version of a classic childhood ritual. And it’s made with nourishing hot chocolate ingredients that I feel good about when I serve them.
Best Hot Chocolate Recipe (Dairy Free)
This hot chocolate contains cocoa powder, healthy fats, warming spices and natural sweetness for a cozy cup of cocoa. You can use organic whole milk for the traditional richness, or substitute coconut or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Coconut milk is higher in fat to make it even creamier. Gelatin helps thicken and benefits hair, nails and gut health.
Instead of white or brown sugar, I prefer maple syrup or honey. They add natural sweeteners, minerals and antioxidants. A pinch of sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor and a sprinkling of vanilla extract makes it all pretty. Sometimes I shave some dark chocolate for extra richness, but this recipe works perfectly with cocoa powder and is delicious, no chocolate chips needed.
The secret of hot chocolate is good quality chocolate and healthy fats. Adding butter or coconut oil creates the velvety texture most people associate with melted chocolate without processed ingredients. And if you need to avoid dairy, coconut milk or coconut oil still adds enough fat to restore the right texture.
Easy commands and shortcuts
This recipe is extremely flexible. Prefer it sweeter? Add a touch more maple syrup or raw honey. Want it ultra-rich? At the end, chop a little bit of dark chocolate. For a classic finish, top with real food whipped cream.
If you grew up on instant packets, it will taste deeper and more complex thanks to real cocoa powder, healthy fats and that pinch of sea salt. The sea salt helps balance out the sweetness and cuts down on any bitterness from the cocoa. Learning how to make hot chocolate is surprisingly simple.
This can easily be customized to your preferences, and I’d love to hear your options in the comments. I like to add a dash of cayenne for a spicy version or some frozen mint for a berry hot cocoa. This Hazelnut Hot Chocolate Recipe is also a family favorite.
Additionally, you can add anti-inflammatory turmeric, hormone-balancing root, or antimicrobial cinnamon to the mix. Cinnamon also adds flavor to Mexican hot chocolate. Homemade Honey and Gelatin Marshmallows are also a family favorite!
Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just for yourself, treat yourself (and your family!) to some of this nutritious and healthy hot chocolate.
Healthy hot chocolate recipe
This delicious nutritional hot chocolate recipe contains cocoa powder, healthy fats and natural sweeteners for a satisfying and healthy drink.
Optional extras
- ½-1 spoon Maca powder (optional)
- ¼ spoon turmeric (optional)
- ½ spoon cinnamon (optional)
- sprinkles of ice cream or coconut cream for richness (optional)
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Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
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Pour into a small saucepan and heat gently over medium heat while stirring. Do not boil.
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Taste and adjust for sweetness or spice.
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Pour into a cup and enjoy hot.
Food facts
Healthy hot chocolate recipe
Amount per serving (1 cup)
Calories 241
Calories from fat 144
% Daily Value*
fat 16g25%
Saturated fat 8 g50%
Trans fat 0.5 g
Saturated fats 2 g
Homogeneous oil 5 g
Cholesterol 30 mg10%
sodium 477 mg21%
Potassium 276 mg8%
Carbohydrates 16g5%
fiber 6 g25%
Sugar 6 g7%
Protein 13g26%
Vitamin A 353IU7%
Vitamin C 1 mg1%
calcium 361 mg36%
Iron 2 mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Try topping it with whipped cream, coconut cream or a few marshmallows.
Cocoa for the crowd
You can make a batch of cocoa in a blender in just two minutes or easily scale it. It also adapts well to a crock pot if you’re making this for a crowd. Simply add the ingredients, toss well and keep warm until ready to serve. It’s perfect for kids, holiday gatherings or family night out.
If you want to make a gallon for the crowd, here are the adjusted amounts:
- 13 cups of milk
- 1 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 cup of gelatin
- 3/4 cup butter or coconut oil
- 1/4-1/2 cup maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 3 TBSP vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 3-6 TBSP maca powder (optional)
- 3 tsp turmeric (optional)
- 3 TBSP cinnamon (optional)
Don’t have time to make cocoa from scratch? I love this usage Organifi Gold Chocolate Powder to make healthy and delicious hot chocolate! And these healthy marshmallows they work well.
What is your favorite hot drink on cold days? Leave a comment and let us know!
