We haven’t gotten much snow since we moved (or whatever!), but back in the day the kids loved playing outside for hours when it snowed. There’s something almost divine about coming in from a lung with a steaming cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream. However, I wanted to find something else with a hot cocoa mix filled with refined sugar and powdered milk.
So I set out to create a healthy, simple, homemade version that tastes even better than the one I grew up with. This isn’t just another hot chocolate mix recipe, it’s the perfect comfort food in a mug. But once you know how to make good hot chocolate, the package doesn’t taste the same.
Thanks for this recipe, it’s always fun to whip up when my kids ask for cocoa after hours outside. It has become a popular childhood event. But this one is made with warm chocolate and I feel good about serving it.
Best Chocolate Recipes (Dairy Free Options)
This hot chocolate combines cocoa powder, healthy fats, hot spices, and natural flavors for a delicious cup of cocoa. You can use whole milk for a traditional richness, or switch to coconut or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Coconut milk is high in fat which makes it creamier. Gelatin helps to grow and add strength to hair, nails, and muscles.
Instead of refined white or brown sugar, I prefer maple syrup or honey. They add natural flavor, minerals, and antioxidants. A pinch of sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor, and a hint of vanilla extract brings everything together beautifully. Sometimes I’ll shave in a little dark chocolate for extra richness, but this recipe works well with cocoa powder and is delicious, no chocolate chips required.
The secret to good hot chocolate is good chocolate and good fat. Adding butter or coconut oil creates that velvety texture many people associate with skimmed milk, without the added ingredients. And if you want to avoid dairy, coconut milk or coconut oil still adds enough fat to make the right kind.
Design and shortcuts are easy
This recipe is very flexible. Does he like it better? Add a touch of maple syrup or unsweetened honey. Want to be rich? Add a little dark chocolate at the end. For a classic finish, on top of the real food cream press.
If you’ve grown up with instant packets, this will be more delicious and complex with good cocoa powder, healthy fats, and a pinch of sea salt. The salt helps to improve the taste and reduces any bitterness in the cocoa. Learning how to make good hot chocolate is surprisingly easy.
This can easily be customized to your liking and I’d love to hear your variations in the comments. I like to add a dash of cayenne for a spicy twist or some frozen raspberries for a hot cocoa berry. This hazelnut hot chocolate recipe is also a family favorite.
Alternatively, you can also add in some anti-inflammatory turmeric, hormone balancing maca root, or antimicrobial cinnamon. Cinnamon also makes it taste like Mexican hot chocolate. Marshmallows with honey and gelatin are also a family favorite!
Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just by yourself, treat yourself (and the family!) to some nutritious, healthy chocolate.
Chocolate recipe is good
This delicious hot chocolate recipe combines cocoa powder, healthy fats, and natural flavors for a satisfying and healthy drink.
Additional options
- ½-1 tsp Maca powder (optional)
- ¼ tsp Turmeric (optional)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- drizzle with cream or coconut cream for extra richness (optional)
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Put everything in a blender and mix until smooth.
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Pour into a small bowl and heat over low heat while stirring. Do not boil.
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Taste and adjust seasonings or spices.
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Pour into a glass and enjoy.
Food Facts
Chocolate recipe is good
Hourly rate (1 cup)
Calories 241
Calories from fat 144
% Daily Value*
Fat 16g25%
8g saturated fat50%
Fat weight 0.5 g
Polyunsaturated fat 2g
Monounsaturated fat 5g
Cholesterol 30 mg10%
Sodium 477 mg21%
Potassium 276 mg8%
Carbohydrates 16g5%
Fiber 6g25%
sugar 6g7%
Protein 13g26%
Vitamin A 353 IU7%
Vitamin C 1 mg1%
Calcium 361 mg36%
Iron 2 mg11%
* Percent Daily Value is 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 cup of cocoa in just two minutes in a blender, or quickly measure it. It works best in a crock pot if you are making this for a crowd. Just spread the ingredients, mix well, and keep warm until you’re ready to serve. Great for kids, holiday parties, or family night.
If you want to make gallons for the crowd here are the fixed amounts:
- 13 cups of milk
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup 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 using Organifi Gold chocolate powder to make hot chocolate that’s so good and delicious! But these marshmallows are good and work well.
What is your favorite hot drink on a cold day? Leave a comment and let us know!
