Description
A rich and creamy dairy-free hot chocolate recipe made with your choice of plant-based milk, cocoa powder, and natural sweeteners. Perfect for cozying up on chilly days, this comforting drink can be customized with peppermint extract and dairy-free toppings for a festive twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups dairy-free milk of choice (coconut, almond, or cashew)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Small pinch of sea salt
- 1 tablespoon dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)
- Peppermint extract (optional, a drop)
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Add the dairy-free milk to a small pot and place it over medium-low heat. This gentle warming prevents scorching and allows the flavors to meld smoothly.
- Mix Ingredients: Whisk in the cocoa powder, pure maple syrup, sea salt, and optionally the dairy-free chocolate chips and a drop of peppermint extract. Continuously whisk until all ingredients are fully combined and the cocoa powder and chocolate chips have completely dissolved.
- Warm, Don’t Boil: Keep heating the mixture until it is warm and steaming but avoid bringing it to a boil, which can affect both taste and texture negatively.
- Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and pour the hot chocolate into mugs. Optionally, top with dairy-free whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or crushed candy cane for an extra festive touch. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can use any dairy-free milk such as oat, soy, or rice milk, but coconut, almond, or cashew are preferred for creaminess.
- Adjust cocoa powder and maple syrup amounts based on your preferred sweetness and chocolate intensity.
- The peppermint extract adds a seasonal flavor but is completely optional.
- Do not allow the mixture to boil, as overheating can cause separation or bitterness.
- For a richer drink, add the optional dairy-free chocolate chips to melt in during heating.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
