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Home » Healthy Recipes » Gluten Free Dairy Free Desserts » Dairy-Free Hot Cacao Recipe

Dairy-Free Hot Cacao Recipe

11/25/2017 by fitasamamabear

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Pinterest image with text: two images of dairy-free hot chocolate in a white and red mug with cinnamon sticks beside it the top image of hands holding the mug
Pinterest image with text: dairy-free hot chocolate in a white and red mug with hands holding the mug on it and a light linen behind it
Pinterest image with text: dairy-free hot chocolate in a white and red mug that say's love on it and a light linen behind it
Pinterest image with text: dairy-free hot chocolate in a white snowman mug, topped with coconut milk and with a candy cane in it and candy canes behind it
Pinterest image with text: dairy-free hot chocolate in a white snowman mug, topped with coconut milk and with a candy cane in it and candy canes behind it
Pinterest image with text: two images of peppermint hot chocolate in a white snowman mug with coconut cream on top and a candy cane on the side
Pinterest image with text: first image homemade hot chocolate in white snowmen mug. Second image hot chocolate in pink crazy cat lady mug
Pinterest image with text: dairy free hot chocolate in white snowmen mugs topped with cinnamon stick
Pinterest image with text: two images of peppermint hot chocolate the top image in a white and red mug with cinnamon beside it the second in a white snowman mug with a candycane
Pinterest image with text: dairy-free hot chocolate in a white snowman mug, topped with coconut milk and with a candy cane in it and candy canes behind it

A five-ingredient, healthy hot chocolate recipe perfect to cozy up with. This peppermint hot cacao is made with minimal ingredients and sweetened with maple syrup. Keep warm this winter with a rich and creamy cup of your favorite hot cocoa.

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healthy hot chocolate in a white and red mug with hands holding the mug on it and a light linen behind it this …

Not only does this healthy hot chocolate give you a cup of comfort on a cold day, but it also gives you a nutrient boost!

Learn more about the difference between raw cacao powder and cocoa powder and why it's a crucial ingredient in your pantry.

As a Certified Nutrition Coach, this homemade hot chocolate makes it so that I never feel bad about curling up with a mug of it. 

Plus, you can actually whip up the ingredients in a jar, pop a bow on it and hand out super cute, homemade Christmas gifts!

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dairy-free hot chocolate isn't just delicious. It also comes with a host of healthy perks too!

  • Lower in sugar than store-bought
  • Contains calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants
  • If using fortified milk it will boost Vit. D intake
  • It’s creamy and indulgent
  • A hit with kids

 

Ingredients

This homemade hot chocolate uses only five ingredients (that you probably already have on hand!).

Almond milk: Using plant-based milk as the base (almond or homemade hemp milk work the best) though oat milk works in a pinch. Oat milk just tends to come out a bit thinner than almond milk.

Maple syrup: Make sure to opt for real maple syrup for the best flavor, the man-made, corn syrup maple syrup won't have the same deliciousness.

This also helps create a rich chocolate flavor and keeps the processed sugar intake to a minimum.

Coconut milk: added as a dairy-free alternative (here are tips on how to go dairy-free) to create a creamy, decadent consistency. Make sure to grab the coconut milk in a can (the thick, white cream part) and not the carton.

Extracts: vanilla and peppermint extract are both used. If you prefer a sweeter taste for your hot cocoa, you can use Vanilla Stevia which brings an amazing flavor out.

 

The Benefits Of Raw Cacao Powder

You may not have noticed, but there's a difference between the two!

Raw Cacao powder is probably one of my favorite ingredients in my cupboards. It is the least processed of chocolate powders and comes with a host of healthy benefits.

  • 40 times the antioxidants than blueberries 
  • the biggest source of plant-based iron
  • It contains a host of minerals
  • more calcium than cow's milk.

However, given it is the least processed of the two, it is also the slightly more bitter one.

Learn more about the differences between cacao and cocoa powder and when to use them.

Personally, I use raw cacao powder for absolutely everything. However, if you want a sweeter healthy hot chocolate recipe, opt for cocoa powder instead.

Homemade hot chocolate in pink crazy cat lady mug with cinnamon sticks beside it

How To Make This Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe Gut Healing

I am always looking for ways to make recipes more gut-friendly. Since our immune system stems from our gut, this is a top priority to me. If you want to add a nutrient boost to this dairy-free hot chocolate recipe, add in a hint of collagen.

Collagen is a protein in its purest form. It is the structural protein found in bones, ligaments, and joints. From a nutrient perspective, it helps fill you up, improve your skin and nails, heal your gut, and much much more.

Personally, I use collagen powder to give things an extra boost. I mix it into yogurts, oatmeal, and smoothies when I'm not using protein powder (learn how to build healthier smoothies).

While I am also an avid user of bone broth, it's kind of hard to work into things like this (HA). This is why I always have collagen packs from Perfect Supplements on hand. They're handy in a pinch (especially when traveling) and a great nutrient boost.

If you want to ease bump up the healing benefits of this dairy-free, peppermint hot chocolate recipe, simply whisk a pack of collagen into it when boiling and enjoy!

dairy-free hot chocolate in a white snowman mug, topped with coconut milk and with a candy cane in it and candy canes behind it

Frequently Asked Questions About Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate

Which non-dairy milk is best for healthy hot chocolate?

The kind of milk you choose will affect the flavor and texture of the hot chocolate. For creamier hot chocolate, opt for hemp or cashew milk. While almond milk is an easy choice, it will cause the hot chocolate to be less smooth.

Do I need to use peppermint extract?

Adding peppermint extract to hot cocoa is an easy and fun way to make the drink a bit more festive. However, it's not essential. Instead, you can use vanilla extract if you're looking to add a new flavor.

Can you drink peppermint hot chocolate while pregnant?

It's important while pregnant to monitor caffeine intake and strive not to consume more than 200 milligrams per day. Hot chocolate made with cacao powder has roughly 12 milligrams per tablespoon of cacao powder making it a safe choice for pregnancy. However, expecting moms will want to watch or omit the peppermint extract in later stages of pregnancy as peppermint can cause a reduction in the production of breastmilk.

Does heating raw cacao powder destroy its nutrients?

Keeping cacao powder at a high heat point will destroy some of its wicked benefits. This is why it's important to whisk in the cacao powder quickly, and not keep it at a boil.

Other Christmas recipes You'll Love

  • Hot chocolate bombs
  • Candy cane fudge
  • Almond flour sugar cookies
  • Healthy caramel popcorn
  • Coconut flour sugar cookies
  • Peppermint patties
  • Peanut butter and jam thumbprint cookies
  • Salted chocolate fudge
  • White chocolate fudge
  • Healthy dessert recipes
Featured image with text: dairy-free hot chocolate in a white snowman mug, topped with coconut milk and with a candy cane in it and candy canes behind it

Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe

An easy, creamy, peppermint hot chocolate recipe made in under ten-minutes. This dairy-free hot cocoa uses only five ingredients to create a rich, creamy & smooth flavor.
5 from 2 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
0 mins
Total Time 20 mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings
Calories 238 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups almond milk
  • 2.5 tbs cacao powder or cocoa powder for a sweeter taste
  • 3 tbs maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup coconut cream see notes
  • ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

Instructions
 

  • In a small pot, heat the almond milk over medium heat.
  • Once the milk is starting to really warm up, whisk in the cacao powder, syrup, and vanilla until no clumps remain.
  • You want the milk to heat but not boil so be patient! Once mixed, add in the coconut cream and peppermint.
  • Heat a minute or two more until creamy looking without letting it burn.
  • Remove from heat, top with more coconut cream or crushed candy caned, and enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • Make sure to use coconut cream for a creamier texture. Coconut milk and powder may work but not as well. 
  • Make the hot cacao more indulgent and top it with 2-minute coconut whipped cream 
  • Make sure not to actually boil the milk or keep it there for long once the cacao powder is added in.
  • The recipe is best enjoyed immediately after making. However, it will store in the fridge for 1-2 days
Disclaimer:

Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data"

Nutrition

Calories: 238kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 331mgPotassium: 268mgFiber: 4gSugar: 19gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 341mgIron: 2mg
Keyword christmas, dairy free hot chocolate, easy hot chocolate, homemade hot coco, peppermint hot chocolate recipe, winter
Have You Tried This Recipe?Please leave a star rating and comment below. Mention @fitasamamabear or tag #fitasamamabear!
 dairy-free hot chocolate in a white and red mug that say's love on it and a light linen behind it

A healthy, homemade, dairy-free hot cocoa recipe that's creamy and indulgent. It's the only hot chocolate I feel comfortable giving my kids as it contains nourishing ingredients while still managing to taste delicious.

Thus, it's become a tasty treat on a winters day... and even more delicious with a shot of dairy-free Bailey's 😉

Shelby aka Mama Bear

fitasamamabear

Meet Shelby – a Certified Strength Coach who has spent the last 10 years teaching women how to show up for their goals.

Her website, Fitasamamabear.com is a crucial resource for busy moms who need help making fitness and healthy living practical.

Learn how an everyday smoker and fast food junkie turned into a super fit mom of 3. If you want to send Shelby a message, visit her contact page.

See author's posts

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  • Slow Cooker High Protein Banana Bread

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Sara at MagicalMamaBlog

    November 25, 2017 at 2:01 pm

    This sounds absolutely incredible and I don't think I would feel guilty gulping multiple cups! Thank you for this recipe!

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 27, 2017 at 12:07 am

      You most definitely don't feel guilty! lol It's soo creamy 😀

      Reply
  2. Amanda RIpsam

    November 26, 2017 at 6:01 am

    As soon as it starts to get cold here in Michigan we stock up on hot chocolate I love the dairy free option you shared I'll be sure to give it a try

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 27, 2017 at 12:07 am

      I'm in Canada so hot chocolate is a necessity! Let me know what you think when you try it 🙂

      Reply
  3. jhilmil

    November 26, 2017 at 6:09 pm

    From Young sweet kids to the so called Grown one's , everyone has the desire for hot chocolate ... Easy to make and with coconut milk , sounds good for health too .. Going to try out this one soon

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 27, 2017 at 12:08 am

      Let me know what you think! I adore coconut milk because it makes it healthy and so so creamy!

      Reply
  4. James Smith

    November 27, 2017 at 6:07 pm

    Looks great and super thick and creamy. Yum!

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 28, 2017 at 1:05 am

      It's definitely a thick one- I like that so I can't drink TOO much lol

      Reply
  5. Marcie

    November 27, 2017 at 6:09 pm

    I just read another recipe for hot chocolate that contains maple syrup. I've never heard of doing that until today! Now I'm definitely going to try this recipe!

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 28, 2017 at 1:05 am

      So confession... I have a serious obsession with maple syrup! It's my go-to sweetener because it works in EVERYTHING lol #canadian

      Reply
  6. Esse D

    November 27, 2017 at 6:20 pm

    Peppermint hot chocolate actually sounds interesting. I think the hint of peppermint would be a welcomed little surprise.

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 28, 2017 at 1:04 am

      It's like dipping a candy cane into it!

      Reply
  7. Oh to Be a Muse

    November 27, 2017 at 9:58 pm

    Wow, what a recipe! I haven't had hot chocolate in so long. Even though I'm not into peppermint, I do love that this is dairy free.

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 28, 2017 at 1:04 am

      It's tasty without the peppermint too 🙂 It;s super creamy which is always nice!

      Reply
  8. Renee

    November 28, 2017 at 7:21 pm

    Going to have to make this for hubby. Peppermint anything is his favorite!

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 29, 2017 at 1:10 am

      Chocolate peppermint is always a win!

      Reply
  9. Aarika

    November 28, 2017 at 7:38 pm

    This is a wonderful recipe!!! I love hot chocolate, and I am always looking for natural dairy-free recipes. Wahoo! Cacao powder is a staple in my home, so I am going to make this delightful drink asap. Thanks!

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 29, 2017 at 1:10 am

      I love that cacao powder is a staple for you- I think I live off the stuff lol Let me know what you think when you try it!

      Reply
  10. Blu

    November 28, 2017 at 7:48 pm

    Everything tastes better homemade! Nice and easy recipe ?

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 29, 2017 at 1:09 am

      Haha yes homemade is better!

      Reply
  11. Bianca

    November 28, 2017 at 8:40 pm

    Omg this looks and sounds delicious! I need to try it

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 29, 2017 at 1:09 am

      It's a tasty one! Perfect on a chilly day 🙂

      Reply
  12. Cori @ Sweet Coralice

    November 29, 2017 at 12:06 am

    Ooh this sounds delish and I can almost taste the creaminess of the chocolate. I've never tried using coconut milk in mine but it's something I'll do soon 😉

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      November 29, 2017 at 1:09 am

      Love love LOVE coconut milk because it makes everything so decadent!

      Reply
  13. Farrah

    October 19, 2018 at 1:32 pm

    Those mugs are so cute! I have pretty much everything I need to make this, so I think I know what I'll be curling up with this weekend!

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      October 19, 2018 at 4:54 pm

      Haha they're our Christmas morning mugs! Make it and let me know what you think! Stay cozy xx

      Reply
  14. selina

    January 02, 2020 at 6:25 pm

    I want to try this but I dont see the recipe. 🙁

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      January 04, 2020 at 11:16 am

      Selina, you so rock for telling me- thank you! I've gone in and I think I fixed it (I can see it on my end) so let me know that you can see it on yours. If not, I'll screenshot the recipe while I fix it so that you have it. Sorry for mix-up but I do REALLY appreciate you letting me know!

      Reply
  15. Summer

    December 13, 2020 at 2:31 am

    Does this really have 5 tablespoons of cacao powder? I'm confused because you abbreviate it for the cacao but spell out tablespoons for the syrup. I made it with 5 tablespoons and it is really good but so so chocolately. Maybe I should have put 5 teaspoons?

    Reply
    • fitasamamabear

      December 13, 2020 at 12:06 pm

      I have a sneaking suspicion that's supposed to be 2.5tbs of cacao powder. Off to check my notes now and give the typo a fix. My apologies though, really thank you for letting me know! I swear I do double and even triple read but typos will be the death of me. I really appreciate you dropping by and giving it a try!

      Reply

Trackbacks

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About Me

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Hey- I’m Shelby!

A Certified Strength & Nutrition Coach who has spent the last 10 years teaching women how to show up for their goals.

I’m a lover of all things chocolate and peanut butter, a feeder of stray cats, and a total introvert in real life. But I’m also super passionate about helping make fitness & healthy living PRACTICAL for busy moms.

Go here to read how an everyday smoker and fast food junkie turned into a super fit mom of 3.

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