Healthy Vegan Hot Chocolate

Category: Sweet Endings

This healthy vegan hot chocolate delivers a decadent cocoa experience without dairy or refined sugar. Blending canned coconut milk with almond milk makes the drink luxuriously creamy yet light, while pure maple syrup brings natural sweetness. The addition of cocoa powder and a hint of cinnamon adds depth and richness, balanced with a touch of vanilla. Simply whisk ingredients together and gently heat for a cozy, satisfying beverage. Top with marshmallows or whipped cream, or savor on its own for the ultimate winter treat. It’s a delightful way to warm up, all while keeping ingredients nourishing and plant-based.

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Updated on Thu, 05 Jun 2025 04:17:07 GMT
A cup of coffee with whipped cream. Pin
A cup of coffee with whipped cream. | easydiyrecipes.com

This vegan hot chocolate is a winter favorite for good reason. It’s creamy and rich using only plant-based ingredients and tastes sweeter than you’d believe for something so healthy. If you want a treat that delivers comfort without loads of sugar or dairy you have found the coziest mug around.

I made this the first time during a snowy weekend and found myself doubling the batch almost immediately My kitchen smelled like a winter café and now it is my go-to when I want a comforting drink to share with friends

Ingredients

  • Canned light coconut milk: provides creaminess without heaviness Choose canned not boxed for best results
  • Unsweetened non-dairy milk like almond: balances the coconut richness Try to pick a brand with clean simple ingredients
  • Cocoa powder: creates that deep chocolate flavor Dutch process or natural both work well Look for unsweetened for best taste
  • Maple syrup: sweetens everything naturally Select real pure maple syrup not pancake syrup for healthiest results
  • Vanilla extract: gives warmth and a fragrant note Pure vanilla always brings the best aroma
  • Ground cinnamon: adds gentle winter spice Fresh cinnamon makes a big difference
  • Salt: just a pinch sharpens and deepens all the flavors Use fine sea salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Dry Base:
In a small saucepan whisk cocoa powder cinnamon and salt together until blended This ensures your cocoa has no bitter lumps and the spices are evenly distributed
Add and Combine Liquids:
Pour in the coconut milk and non-dairy milk then add the vanilla and maple syrup Stir well The coconut milk is what makes this so creamy while almond milk keeps it light
Froth for Creaminess:
Use an immersion blender or handheld milk frother right in the pot to blend until smooth and slightly foamy This will dissolve any cocoa and create a café style finish You can also use a blender for extra silkiness
Heat to Serve:
Warm the mixture over low to medium heat until steaming but not boiling Stir gently until hot This step helps everything meld together
Finish and Garnish:
Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or a dollop of non-dairy whipped cream if you want Serve immediately for the best experience
A cup of chocolate with marshmallows on top. Pin
A cup of chocolate with marshmallows on top. | easydiyrecipes.com

My favorite part of this recipe is the light coconut milk It gives the drink a lush feel without making it taste like coconut I remember whipping this up in my favorite mug and adding cinnamon in the snow my youngest declared it the best hot chocolate ever

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers simply pour the cooled hot chocolate into a jar and refrigerate It will keep for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove whisking well to revive that creamy texture If it thickens too much just add a splash more almond milk

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of almond milk try oat or soy milk for slightly different flavors If you do not have maple syrup agave can work though the flavor will change a little For an extra treat try adding a tiny pinch of espresso powder for mocha notes

A cup of chocolate with whipped cream. Pin
A cup of chocolate with whipped cream. | easydiyrecipes.com

Serving Suggestions

Top with vegan marshmallows or coconut whipped cream for a special touch Dust a bit more cinnamon or cocoa powder on top Serve alongside spiced cookies for a perfect winter dessert spread

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this hot chocolate extra creamy?

The use of canned coconut milk gives the drink a rich, creamy texture without needing dairy. Almond milk keeps it light and smooth.

→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute agave or another natural liquid sweetener if preferred, but maple syrup adds a delicious flavor and blends easily.

→ Which type of cocoa powder works best?

Both Dutch-processed and regular unsweetened cocoa powder work well. Cacao powder can be used too, but has a slightly more bitter taste.

→ How do I make the hot chocolate frothy?

Use an immersion blender, handheld milk frother, or even a regular whisk to blend the mixture until it's smooth and frothy.

→ What toppings go well with this drink?

Marshmallows, coconut whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon make excellent additions, or enjoy it plain for a pure chocolate flavor.

→ Is there a coconut flavor to this drink?

Light canned coconut milk provides creaminess without a strong coconut taste, making it ideal for those wanting a neutral chocolate beverage.

Healthy Vegan Hot Chocolate

Wholesome vegan hot chocolate with coconut milk, maple, and cocoa—luxuriously creamy and naturally sweet.

Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
10 min
By: Evelyn

Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Global

Yield: 4 Servings (4 cups)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Liquid Base

01 400 ml light coconut milk
02 360 ml unsweetened almond milk

→ Chocolate Blend

03 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
04 60 ml maple syrup
05 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 1/8 teaspoon salt

Steps

Step 01

Add cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to a saucepan. Whisk thoroughly to eliminate clumps.

Step 02

Pour in the light coconut milk, almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Whisk to combine.

Step 03

Use an immersion blender or handheld milk frother to blend until the mixture is completely smooth and frothy. Alternatively, transfer to a blender for extra creaminess, then return to the pan.

Step 04

Set the saucepan over low to medium heat. Warm until heated through, stirring occasionally. Do not allow to boil.

Step 05

Pour into mugs and enjoy immediately. For added indulgence, top with vegan marshmallows or whipped plant-based cream if desired.

Notes

  1. For optimal creaminess, always use canned coconut milk rather than boxed varieties. Full-fat yields a richer drinking chocolate, while light coconut milk balances texture and flavor without being too heavy.
  2. Any type of cocoa powder works, including Dutch-processed or regular unsweetened; cacao powder will add a bitter note.

Tools Required

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Immersion blender or milk frother
  • Mugs

Allergy Info

Double-check all ingredients to spot potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional if uncertain.
  • Contains coconut; packaged almond milk may contain tree nuts.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 285
  • Fats: 21.7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 3 g