An upgraded version of a cold weather classic, this healthy hot chocolate is made with oat milk, pure maple syrup and cocoa powder. It’s creamy, chocolatey and comes together in just 10 minutes.
Winter and hot chocolate go hand in hand for me! As a kid, I vividly remember playing in the snow and then coming in for a cozy cup of hot cocoa. I can’t wait to start that tradition with Liv and Tucker! This year, I’m particularly excited to try making healthy hot chocolate that we can all enjoy together.
I decided to make an upgraded, EBF-approved version with simple ingredients that is low in sugar and dairy-free. But don’t worry… it’s still as rich, creamy and delicious as traditional hot cocoa!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy – This hot chocolate is made with a mix of cocoa powder and real chocolate, giving it a perfectly rich and indulgent flavor.
- Customizable – Use your favorite milk, adjust the sweetness, and top it however you like; coconut whip, vegan marshmallows, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 5-7 minutes, it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day without much effort.
- Dairy-free – Made with oat milk or any non-dairy milk, it’s a great choice for those avoiding dairy but still craving something cozy and delicious.
Ingredients Needed
- oat milk – unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk or any non-dairy milk would also work!
- unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder – adds a rich chocolate flavor to the hot cocoa. Either option will work, just make sure it’s unsweetened! I recommend using a high-quality cocoa powder as this is the star of the show.
- chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips – adds a more rich, creamy chocolate flavoring to the hot cocoa! I like using Lily’s chocolate chips since they’re low in sugar and calories but any dark chocolate works.
- pure maple syrup – the natural sweetener for this drink. Feel free to use liquid sweetener of your choice (like honey or agave) but I think maple syrup compliments the rest of the ingredients well.
- vanilla extract – the perfect flavor enhancer for this drink.
- sea salt – trust me on this one! Just a pinch of salt brings this entire drink together!
Flavor Variations
- Spiked hot chocolate: Add a shot of Irish cream, whiskey, bourbon, amaretto or any liquor of choice for a boozy hot chocolate!
- Mexican hot chocolate: Add a shake of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Peppermint: Add ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract to the mixture and garnish with a candy cane!
- Caramel: Mix a little of my date caramel sauce to the mixture and drizzle extra on top.
- Protein packed: Looking to add a boost of protein to this cozy cup? Try my protein hot chocolate recipe.
How to Make Healthy Hot Chocolate
Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, maple syrup, vanilla and salt.
Step 2: Heat mixture on low medium heat until just simmering and chocolate is melted and the clumps of cocoa are gone. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Pour hot chocolate into a mug.
Step 4: Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Brittany’s Tip!
Make sure you whisk constantly and don’t let the mixture boil or you will burn the chocolate!
Healthy Hot Chocolate Toppings
The best part of hot chocolate is the toppings right?! I loved fishing out the marshmallows from my mug when I was growing up and still love adding fun toppings today. Here are some ideas:
- Coconut whipped cream
- Vegan marshmallows (I love these Dandies mini vanilla marshmallows)
- Chocolate shavings
- Chocolate chips
- Dusting of cocoa powder
- Drizzle of peanut butter
- Sprinkle of cinnamon
Storing Options
- In the fridge: If you have leftovers (unlikely, but just in case), let your healthy hot chocolate cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring well before serving.
- In the freezer: Want to make it ahead? Freeze it in an ice cube tray for future use. Pop a few cubes into a saucepan when you’re ready to enjoy, and heat them up with a splash of milk for a quick, creamy treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use any milk you prefer—dairy or non-dairy. Whole milk will give you a creamier hot chocolate, but almond, soy, or coconut milk are great options too.
Cocoa powder is more processed and typically less bitter, while cacao powder is raw and has a deeper, slightly more bitter flavor. Either works in this recipe, so use whichever you have on hand.
The hot cocoa you had growing up was likely loaded with dairy, lots of sugar and corn syrup… no thank you! Turns out you don’t need to use heavy cream, milk or loads of sugar to have a tasty cup of hot cocoa! This healthy hot chocolate recipe is made with oat milk (or another dairy-free milk) making the drink vegan and dairy free and it’s sweetened with just pure maple syrup.
More Drink Recipes to Try
Be sure to check out all of my drink recipes here on EBF!
If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below.
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In a small saucepan, combine milk, cocoa powder, chocolate chips, maple syrup, vanilla and salt.
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Heat on low medium heat until just simmering and chocolate is melted and the clumps of cocoa are gone, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t let your hot chocolate boil or you could burn the chocolate.
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Pour into a mug, top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Serving: 1 | Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 249mg | Potassium: 464mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 9g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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