Yields: 2 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5-7 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened dairy-free milk: Almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk all work well.
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Look for Dutch-process cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
- 2-3 tablespoons sweetener of your choice: Maple syrup, honey, granulated sugar, or your preferred sugar substitute.
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Dairy-free whipped cream
- Mini dairy-free marshmallows
- Chocolate shavings
- Cinnamon
Instructions:
- Combine the dry: In a small saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sweetener, and salt.
- Gradually add the milk: Whisking constantly, slowly pour in the dairy-free milk to the dry ingredients. This will help prevent lumps.
- Warm up and thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk frequently until the mixture is hot and smooth and begins to thicken slightly. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Flavor boost: Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Taste and adjust: Give your hot chocolate a taste. Add more sweetener if desired.
- Serve and indulge!: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with your favorite toppings, if desired.
Tips:
- Creamy richness: For a creamier hot chocolate, try a blend of full-fat canned coconut milk and your preferred non-dairy milk.
- Chocolate chunks: For an extra chocolatey flavor, stir in a couple of tablespoons of dairy-free chocolate chips along with the vanilla for a decadent touch.
- Flavor twists: Experiment with a pinch of cinnamon, a touch of chili powder, or a dash of peppermint extract.
Enjoy the cozy goodness of this gluten-free and dairy-free hot chocolate!
