Sinfully Delicious: Vegan Hot Chocolate Recipe
Welcome to my vegan hot chocolate recipe! As a vegan chef, I’ve always believed that plant-based eating can be just as delicious, if not more so, than animal-based diets. And this recipe is the perfect example of that.
As the weather gets cooler and the nights get longer, there’s nothing quite like a warm mug of hot chocolate to cozy up with. But for those of us who follow a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle, finding a sinfully rich and creamy option can be a challenge.
That’s where this recipe comes in – it’s easy to make, healthy, and positively indulgent. And whether you’re dairy free by choice, allergy or just looking to switch things up a bit, this luscious vegan hot chocolate is sure to hit the spot.
So get ready to elevate your hot chocolate game and discover the best vegan Hot Chocolate recipe out there!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hey there, my fellow dessert lovers! If you’re on the hunt for a rich and creamy vegan hot chocolate recipe, then you’ve come to the right place because I’ve got the ultimate winter indulgence for you! And let me tell you, this vegan hot chocolate recipe is unlike any other.
First of all, let’s get one thing straight – just because it’s vegan doesn’t mean it’s lacking in flavor, texture or creaminess. In fact, this hot chocolate is so incredibly rich and velvety that it’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. It’s perfect for warming your soul on a chilly winter day or as an evening treat to sip on while reading a book or binge-watching your favorite show.
What sets this vegan hot chocolate recipe apart from other recipes out there is its combination of ingredients that create a beautiful symphony of flavors. Made with dairy-free milk (your choice), sweeteneed with maple syrup, and cocoa powder, this hot chocolate puts other hot cocoa mixes to shame.
Not only does it taste delicious but it is also incredibly easy to make! With just 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, you can have a steaming cup of this glorious drink in no time. Plus, if you’re feeling creative or want to switch things up, there are plenty of variations and substitutions that will allow you to customize this recipe to your preference.
In summary, you’ll love this vegan hot chocolate recipe because it is:
1. Rich and creamy
2. Perfect for warming your soul on cold days
3. Easy to make in minutes
4. Highly customizable with different substitutions and variations
So what are you waiting for? Try out this vegan hot chocolate recipe and indulge in the ultimate winter comfort drink!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the best vegan hot cocoa ever.
- 2 cups non-dairy milk of choice (soy, oat, almond or cashew milk)
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips or small pieces from a dark chocolate bar
- 3 tablespoons sugar of your sweetener choice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For a creamier vegan hot chocolate, swap out 1 cup of non-dairy milk with 1 cup of creamy coconut milk. If you prefer a less creamy texture, simply add more plant-based milk. For a healthier spin on this recipe, use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder and sweeten it up with maple syrup instead of sugar. Don’t hesitate to add ingredients such as pistachios or whipped cream on top – it’s all about making it hit that sweet spot!
The Recipe How-To
Now for the best part, let’s get down to making the best vegan hot chocolate recipe you’ll ever taste! Ready? Let’s begin.
Ingredients
Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:
- 2 cups of non-dairy milk (milk choice: oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, etc.)
- 1/4 cup of sugar (sweetener choice: maple syrup or any other sweetener)
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder (cocoa powder choice: unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Here are the step-by-step directions to make your perfect creamy vegan hot chocolate in just a few minutes:
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In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of non-dairy milk, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder until there are no lumps.
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Add a pinch of salt and place the pot over medium heat.
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Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally with a whisk until it begins to simmer, around 5 to 7 minutes.
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Turn off the heat, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the optional 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips until they melt.
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When done, pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately. Optionally, add some vegan whipped cream on top.
Extra Tips
If you want to make your hot chocolate even richer and creamier, replace half a cup of non-dairy milk with full-fat lite coconut milk.
For an instant vegan option, fill a mason jar with two tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder and one tablespoon sugar. Add warm water or warm non-dairy milk and stir until well combined.
Variations
You can customize this recipe according to your preferences by adding different ingredients such as beloved pistachio for that nutty kick, hearty dark chocolate bar broken into chunks for that intense flavour or a fluffy bit whipped cream for that impeccable end note.
Now that you know how to make this easy-peasy best vegan hot chocolate recipe ever, get cozy on this winter day and indulge yourself in this healthy hot dessert!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous and are looking to mix things up a bit, I’ve got some exciting substitutions and variations that will take your vegan hot chocolate recipe to the next level.
Firstly, this recipe calls for soymilk as the non-dairy milk of choice, but you can easily swap in any other non-dairy milk that you like such as almond milk, oat milk or coconut milk – each one will give a unique flavor twist. If you love richness, then I recommend using lite coconut milk instead of soymilk for an extra creamy vegan hot chocolate recipe.
In terms of sweeteners, maple syrup is my go-to for adding a touch of natural sweetness to the recipe. If you prefer another sweetener choice such as agave or honey – feel free to add in 2 tbsp (or more) of your favorite sweetener.
For true chocolate lovers out there, try adding in dark chocolate chips or a dark chocolate bar instead of semisweet chocolate chips. This substitution will result in a more intense and rich-flavored vegan hot chocolate.
If you are looking for a pistachio twist on your hot cocoa, add 1 tablespoon of pistachio butter to the ingredients list. It will give your drink an added nutty flavor that surely won’t disappoint.
Finally, for those who are looking for a healthier alternative or simply want to switch things up with different ingredients they have lying around in their pantries; why not use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder? Or use plant-based whipped cream on top instead of traditional whipped cream? These substitutions will deliver a slightly different taste and texture but still result in an easy-to-make and rich creamy vegan hot chocolate recipe.
Experiment with these variations and substitutions with caution! The goal is to create the best vegan hot chocolate recipe so keep trying out new ingredients until you find what works best for you.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve made the perfect cup of vegan hot chocolate, it’s time to indulge and savor every delicious sip. Hot chocolate is the ultimate comfort drink, and you can enjoy it in so many ways. Here are some ideas to take your vegan hot chocolate experience to the next level.
For a classic pairing, serve your hot chocolate with your favorite vegan cookies or warm crusty bread. The contrast between the soft and chewy cookies or bread with the rich and velvety texture of your homemade hot chocolate is just unbeatable.
If you’re feeling adventurous, pair your vegan hot chocolate with a serving of fluffy marshmallows. You can easily make marshmallows at home using agar agar powder or buy some dairy-free options from local grocery stores.
You can add extra flavors such as coffee or peppermint to create a mocha or peppermint chocolate flavor profile. It’s also fun to experiment with different extracts such as almond, hazelnut, or even orange for a bittersweet twist.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can garnish your vegan hot chocolate with pecans, pistachios, or chia seeds. These amazing nuts provide an unexpected crunch and texture while adding some minerals and vitamin E to the mix.
For an extra special moment, try serving your vegan hot chocolate in a mason jar topped with whipped cream, coconut flakes, and shaved dark chocolate bar. The presentation is fabulous and gives off serious hygge vibes!
Finally, consider pairing your vegan hot chocolate with plant-based milk alternatives like soy, almond or oat milk which will make them more nutritious and creamy. Whatever serving approach you choose, just enjoy this classic comfort drink- whether on a cold Winter day indoors or cosy night in watching Netflix- A truly wholesome indulgence!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about this vegan hot chocolate recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make in advance and store for a later time. It’s also perfect for batch cooking, so you can have a ready-to-serve hot cocoa mix in your pantry whenever needed.
If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, I suggest storing it in a mason jar or an airtight container for up to five days in the refrigerator. To reheat it, simply microwave it for 30 seconds or heat it over medium heat on the stove until warmed through. You might find the mixture thickens after being stored. This is normal, but if you prefer a thinner consistency use warm water or non-dairy milk to dilute it.
For those of you who like to prepare as much as possible ahead of time, you can even freeze this vegan hot chocolate mix for up to one month. When reheating from frozen, ensure you use microwave-safe glass or ceramic dish suitable for high temperature. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before heating.
You can experiment with different storage options and see what works best for you. The most important thing is that you keep the mixture in an airtight container in order to preserve freshness and prevent any contamination.
Having a readily available stash of homemade vegan hot chocolate mix will give you the assurance that your next craving will be easily satisfied. So go ahead and try this delicious recipe – your future self will thank you!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have your ingredients ready and your mind set on sipping some hot chocolate, let me share with you some tips to follow for a perfect result!
First and foremost, choose the right milk choice. Soymilk or almond milk are great options for a creamy vegan hot chocolate, while oat milk is a good choice for a less creamy version. Also, don’t forget to add the ingredients in the right order: start with the warm water, then add the cocoa powder and sugar and whisk well before adding the milk. This will allow for better mixing and prevent clumping.
Another important tip is to use high-quality chocolate. The best vegan hot chocolate is made using semisweet chocolate chips or a dark chocolate bar broken into small pieces. Using subpar brands or low-quality chocolate will result in a lackluster hot cocoa experience.
If you prefer a plant-based sweetener choice, maple syrup is an excellent substitute for sugar as it adds both sweetness and depth of flavor. But if you’re looking for healthier options, try adding cacao powder or carob powder instead of regular cocoa powder, as they contain naturally occurring antioxidants.
To make sure your hot chocolate has the right consistency, use 1 ½ cups of non-dairy milk per cup of cocoa powder. For an even creamier texture, try replacing some of the milk with lite coconut milk.
When reheating leftover hot chocolate, use gentle heat to avoid burning it. A microwave works fine, but make sure to stir every 30 seconds to avoid any lumps from forming.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings like whipped cream, pistachio or shredded coconut! Get creative and try different combinations until you find your favorite!
Following these tips will ensure that the hot chocolate is rich, creamy and totally worth indulging in!
FAQ
Now that you have all the information you need to make a delicious and creamy vegan hot chocolate, it’s time to answer some frequently asked questions! Don’t worry if you have doubts or concerns regarding ingredient substitutions, serving sizes, or how to store this tasty recipe – I got you covered. So, let’s jump right into it!
What vegan milk is best for hot chocolate?
When it comes to making hot chocolate, two great plant-based milk options are oat and almond milk. Oat milk offers a touch of sweetness to the chocolate and doesn’t overpower its flavor, while almond milk adds a subtle nutty taste and is a great choice if you prefer a less creamy consistency.
What is vegan hot chocolate made of?
Are you in the mood for a rich and creamy hot chocolate, but need a vegan option? Look no further! This recipe calls for a mixture of your preferred milk (whether it be almond, soy, oat, or any other milk of your choice) and full-fat canned coconut milk or cashew cream. To add a chocolatey flavor, we’ll be adding 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, along with a sweetener of your choice such as regular or unrefined sugar, pure maple syrup, or agave. A pinch of salt and 2 tsp of pure vanilla extract will complete the recipe. Let’s get started!
Does vegan hot chocolate exist?
When it comes to making a scrumptious hot cocoa, you can use Hershey’s Cocoa as both the original and Special Dark varieties are vegan-friendly. Alternatively, any cacao powder can be used to make a brilliant hot cocoa. All you need to do is mix the powder with your favorite nondairy milk and a sweetener of your choice.
What is a good milk substitute for hot chocolate?
When it comes to preparing an indulgent cup of hot chocolate, there are a few milk alternatives that work perfectly. Almond milk, cashew milk, soy milk, and coconut milk are all excellent options to consider.
Bottom Line
So, there you have it – a warm and indulgent vegan hot chocolate recipe that is perfect for those cold winter nights or cozy evenings in. As someone who has been baking and cooking vegan dishes for years, I can confidently say that this is one of the best vegan hot chocolate recipes out there. The combination of rich cocoa powder, plant-based milk and creamy vegan chocolate chips make every sip of this hot chocolate a pure delight.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan chef or just starting your journey, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. With so many plant-based milk options available these days, you can easily customize it to your liking with oat milk, coconut milk or any other non-dairy option.
So why not try this rich and creamy vegan hot chocolate today? Not only will it warm you up on a chilly day, but it’s also healthier than traditional dairy-based hot chocolate recipes. And trust me when I say that once you’ve tried this recipe, you won’t go back to your old ways of making hot chocolate.
Finally, if you loved this recipe as much as I do, then feel free to share it with your family and friends because everyone deserves a delicious cup of warm hot chocolate in their lives!
Vegan Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup soymilk (vanilla, regular, ricemilk, whatever- even unsweetened is good)
- 2 -3 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons warm water
Instructions
- Heat milk in the microwave (or on stove). Get it just a little hotter than drinkable. Stirring once or twice is a good idea.
- Stir the cocoa and sugar into the warm water in a small container to dissolve sugar. Pour this into the mug of hot milk. Enjoy after skating, sliding, or a frosty white walk!
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.