It’s finally cold enough for hot drinks and this hot chocolate has quickly become a favorite of mine. Topped off with some coconut whipped cream, a few mini vegan marshmallows and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Is there anything better? I mean, just look at it! You can even step up the festivities by adding a candy cane. Peppermint hot chocolates are kind of amazing – the candy cane will slowly dissolve into the hot chocolate and leave behind a faint peppermint flavor. Give it a try if you’re a fan of that flavor or opt for a drop or two of peppermint extract as a stronger substitute without the added sugar.
When I was first formulating this mix I used a soy milk powder and it just didn’t taste right to me. If you’re looking for a lower fat option you can definitely go that route or omit it altogether. The main purpose of the coconut milk powder is to add a rich and creamy texture to the hot chocolate. So you can mix it with hot water or non-dairy milk and it will still have that richness. Alternatively you can omit it or replace it with a better alternative that suits your lifestyle.
I’ve also tested this out with liquid sweeteners and different granulated sugars. But found that this combination is truly the easiest to put together and has the best flavor. Of course you can use maple syrup, coconut nectar, cane sugar or pitted dates (if you give it a blend). There are tons of vegan recipes for options like that. My mix is simple, rich and a bit more indulgent. Have fun creating your own! The healthiest hot chocolate combo I’ve put together would have to be – almond milk, carob, dates, maple syrup and ground cinnamon blended together until smooth and slightly warmed. There’s also this English toffee stevia that would make it virtually sugar-free if that’s more your style.
If you’re not a fan of dark chocolate, you might want to start by adding half the recommended amount of mix at first. I can’t stress enough the importance of this being an indulgent treat. I understand it’s high in sugar and fat – please don’t yell at me for that! If you’re not in the market for a blend like this, Google will be your best friend in finding a better suited option. All I can say is, this hot chocolate mix makes me happy and I seriously adore it. Everyone has different tastes and might not find this mix to their liking. Please explore other options and get creative if that’s the case.
This would make a wonderful gift for a loved one this holiday season. Either layered with each ingredient or mixed together and topped off with vegan marshmallows.
I hope you give this hot chocolate a try and let me know what you think! If you make this mix, snap a photo and tag me @PlantPhilosophy on Instagram using the hashtag #PlantPhilosophy so I don’t miss it. You can reach me on any social platform, but IG is where I’m at most of the time. I look forward to your recreations.
<3
Happy Holidays!
Easy Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix
Prep
Cook
Total
Yield 8 servings
The perfect diy gift for the dark chocolate lover in your life. 4 ingredient vegan hot cocoa mix that's easy to make and even more delicious to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Powdered Coconut Milk
- 1/2 cup Cacao Powder
- 3/4 cup Coconut Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
Instructions
- Measure and sift all ingredients into a medium sized bowl. Whisk to evenly combine.
- Transfer to an air-tight glass jar and top with vegan marshmallows.
- To make, whisk together 3-4 tbsp of hot chocolate mix to 1 1/2 cups (12 ounces) of liquid. You can use hot water or steamed non-dairy milk.
Notes
The basic mix itself should stay fresh for at least 3-4 months if kept stored in an airtight container, out of direct sunlight and at room temperature — no need to refrigerate.
For a creamer cocoa, double up on the coconut milk powder and mix with non-dairy milk.
Courses Dessert
Cuisine American
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 4 tbsp
Amount Per Serving | ||
|---|---|---|
Calories 185 | ||
% Daily Value | ||
Total Fat 9 g | 14% | |
Saturated Fat 8 g | 40% | |
Sodium 13 mg | 1% | |
Total Carbohydrates 27 g | 9% | |
Dietary Fiber 3 g | 12% | |
Sugars 18 g | ||
Protein 3 g | 6% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Easy Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix | Gluten-Free, Soy-Free, Kid-Friendly | The Plant Philosophy
This hot cocoa mix looks incredible, Margaret! I’ve never heard of powdered coconut milk before but I’l definitely have to give it a try! 🙂
Thanks so much, Sarah! If you do, I’d love to hear your thoughts on it.
Wish I’d found your recipe before I bought the soy milk powder (for cost’s sake). On the plus side, I’m glad I was on the right track with just my own brain at the bulk store. Definitely will try the coconut milk powder next time, but I think I’ll attempt your advice with the doubling the milk powder using the soy and see if that bulks up the creaminess some. Thanks for the recipe!
I think soy milk powder will work wonderfully. Let me know how it turns out and what you think!