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There's nothing better than a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate to cozy up with on a chilly day. My healthy hot chocolate recipe is creamy, fragrant, and packed with rich chocolate flavor. It's low in added sugars, gluten-free, and ready in just 10 minutes, a treat my whole family loves.
I created this recipe because I adore hot chocolate during the holidays, but I wanted a version that's lower in sugar and calories, something I could enjoy every day instead of just once in a while. Just like my vegan coquito, this recipe is proof that comfort food can be both delicious and healthy!
Who doesn't love a cozy cup of hot chocolate when the weather turns chilly? On sunny winter days, I like to fill my to-go cup with my healthy hot chocolate and head to the park while my kids play. Of course, I always pack some snacks for them, usually my ginger snap cookies because what's hot chocolate without a little something sweet on the side?
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🥘 Ingredients
I love how warm and comforting this healthy hot chocolate recipe is, and I made it with simple ingredients so you can enjoy it too.
Milk: I use 1% milk for a creamy texture without needing whole milk or cream. It adds just enough healthy fat to make this cocoa feel rich, not watered down.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: I always go for high-quality unsweetened cocoa or raw cacao powder. It's rich and chocolatey, like a dark chocolate bar, without all the added sugar of cocoa mix.
Vanilla Extract and Molasses: A little vanilla and molasses add natural sweetness and a touch of rich, cozy flavor.
Spices: I blend Ceylon cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cardamom, and cloves for a warm, wintry vibe that makes every sip feel festive.
🔪 How to Make
It's time for the best part, making this recipe in 3 steps! You'll be amazed at how quick and simple it is, and I've got step-by-step photos to make it even easier.
Step 1: I start by whisking together the cocoa powder, all the spices, and a pinch of sea salt in a small bowl. It's so simple, just mix everything from the ingredients list except the milk, and you're ready to go!
Step 2: I heat a large saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop, then pour in half the milk. Next, I add the cocoa powder mixture and whisk it all together until it's smooth and free of any lumps, it's already starting to smell amazing
Step 3: I pour in the rest of the milk and whisk everything together until it's perfectly combined. Then, I gently heat the hot chocolate until it's nice and warm, but not boiling, so it stays creamy and smooth.
Time to serve! I pour the warm, creamy cinnamon hot chocolate into mugs, and it's ready to enjoy. There's nothing better than sipping on this cozy, chocolatey treat!
📖 Variations
I'm amazed by how flexible this healthy hot chocolate recipe can be, it's a comforting classic that's perfect for adding your own creative twists!
Vegan Hot Chocolate: I make this dairy-free by swapping in almond, coconut, oat, or soy milk, so easy and just as creamy! It's perfect for anyone avoiding dairy but still craving a rich hot cocoa.
Lower Sugar or Sweetener Swaps: If I'm out of molasses or want a different flavor, I use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. For a sugar-free option, monk fruit sweetener works like a charm!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: For a fun twist, I switch the spices for a few drops of peppermint extract,, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. It's super refreshing and feels like the holidays in a mug!
Spicy Hot Chocolate: When I'm feeling adventurous, I add a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick. It's perfect for anyone who loves bold, Mexican-inspired flavors!
🍽 Serving Suggestions
I enjoy serving my healthy hot cocoa just as it is, or dressing it up with a few fun toppings! You can keep it classic with homemade whipped cream, dark chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows for an extra treat.
Other fun mix-ins: I love are toffee bits, crushed mints, or candy canes, and let me tell you, using a whole candy cane as a stirrer is such a game-changer! Not only does it add a lovely peppermint flavor, but it also feels so festive. I remember the first time my kids tried it, they thought it was the coolest thing ever and now insist on candy canes every time we make hot chocolate.
Toppings: sometimes, I like to get a little fancy and sprinkle some coarse sea salt on top, it's incredible how a tiny pinch brings out the chocolate flavor. And when I'm in the mood for something extra indulgent, a drizzle of caramel, chocolate sauce, or even melted peanut butter does the trick.
🧊 Storage Directions
Refrigeration: I pop it in the fridge, where it stays fresh for 2-3 days. Just make sure it's sealed up tight!
Freezing: I don't recommend freezing it because the milk doesn't hold up well, so I always stick with refrigerating.
Reheating: When I'm ready for another cozy mug, I just give it a good stir and warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. It tastes just as good the second time.
❓Recipe FAQs
Should you make hot chocolate with milk or hot water?
Technically, you can make hot chocolate with either milk or water, but I always go for milk, and here's why: first, it gives the drink a creamier, richer texture that feels so indulgent. Plus, it adds a boost of protein, which makes it a little more satisfying. Water can highlight the cocoa's flavor, but it just doesn't have the same thick and luscious feel that I love in a good hot chocolate!
What is the difference between cocoa powder and cacao powder?
Cacao powder is a great option when I want something natural and nutrient-packed. It's considered "raw" because the cocoa beans are fermented, processed at low temperatures, and then milled into powder. While it's more bitter than cocoa powder, it retains more minerals and nutrients since it's less processed.
Cocoa powder, on the other hand, is made by fermenting the beans and then roasting them at higher temperatures. This gives it a milder, sweeter flavor with less acidity, which I love for its versatility. While it might lose some natural nutrients during roasting, it's still a much healthier choice than using whole chocolate to make hot chocolate!
Why is hot chocolate not healthy?
Most hot chocolate isn't exactly a healthy treat, did you know that just 1 cup (8 oz) of traditional hot chocolate packs 250-300 calories and a whopping 35 grams of sugar? That's nearly as much sugar as two full-sized Snickers bars! The good news? You can satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free with my easy hot chocolate recipe. It's low-calorie, with only 5 grams of added sugar and under 200 calories for a generous 12 oz cup!
What are the best brands of hot chocolate mixes?
I have found the best hot chocolate powders are organic, naturally sourced, and have minimal added sugar. Whole Foods, Dagoba, and Silly Cow Farms all have great options.
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