
You guys, it’s cold. I mean, seriously cold.
We may have narrowly escaped the polar vortex but I’m still feeling its aftermath. Most days John and I hunker down inside next to space heaters. But when I just can’t kick a chill – or am having a serious chocolate craving – I make my favorite 5 minute (or less) vegan hot cocoa.

It’s such a simple recipe it’s almost a non-recipe. But I asked Facebook fans if they’d be interested and the answer was a resounding ‘yes.’ So, here it is – my go-to homemade hot chocolate that’s way better (and healthier) than any packaged or boxed mix you’ll find.
Origins of Hot Chocolate
Chocolate may date as far back as the Olmecs who were the earliest known Mesoamerican civilization. But it’s been grown and made into a drink since at least the 9th century. Mayans made a drink with cacao, water, cornmeal, chili peppers, and other spices (source). It didn’t have any added sweetener so it was quite bitter.
By the 16th century, Spanish explorers learned about the drink. They brought the concept to Spain and began adding sugar. By the 18th century, it was introduced in the US. And the rest is history!
How to Make Vegan Hot Cocoa
It starts with simple ingredients:
Unsweetened vanilla or plain almond milk (or make your own!)
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Dairy-free semisweet or dark chocolate
Raw sugar or stevia

You can make this in the microwave in a big mug – I use my big yellow cereal mug that I’ve had since high school and have carried with me like an adult blankie. Or, if you’re not into the microwave or would rather go old school, simply add ingredients to a small saucepan, bring to a simmer and whisk away. Creamy perfection is just 5 minutes away.

Next I like to add a little extract. I know everyone usually recommends adding vanilla to “bring out the flavor of the chocolate” or something like that. But I’ve been on a chocolate peppermint kick for the last few months, so I put in a drop or two of peppermint extract and it sends my tastebuds straight to heaven.
The last element? Coconut whipped cream. I mean, hubba hubba. Also, WHY NOT? It really does put the finishing touch on the cocoa and gives it that luscious, creamy effect I just adore.

And there you have it! My 5-Minute Vegan Hot Cocoa. I hope you make it a lot this winter to keep warm. And if you do, Instagram me a photo – it’s kind of my favorite. Then we can be warm together via internet.

5-Minute Vegan Hot Cocoa
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 Tbsp dairy-free semisweet chocolate (chips or bar // chopped)
- Sweetener of choice (I prefer 1 Tbsp raw sugar or 1/2 packet powdered stevia per mug)
- 1/8 tsp peppermint extract (optional)
- Coconut whipped cream (optional // for topping)
Instructions
- Add almond milk to a large mug and microwave for 1 minute. Alternatively, add to a saucepan over medium heat.
- Once milk is warm, add cocoa powder, chocolate and sweetener and whisk to combine.
- Put back in microwave or continue cooking on stovetop until completely combined and has reached your preferred temperature.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Lastly, add in your extract of choice – I think peppermint is truly unbeatable. Stir, and top with coconut whipped cream.
Bellybeats says
Love the hot cocoa!! It’s so easy and delicious
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! So glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for sharing! xo
Rachel says
Now that it’s peppermint season, this recipe is back in my rotation. It is so quick and delicious! I might have even snuck some Peppermint Schnapps in it. :)
This year I used whole milk and added some foam with a frothing wand after whisking the ingredients with the warm milk, before the second heating. It was such a delicious treat!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
That sounds SO delicious, Rachel! Thank you for sharing! xo
Irene says
So yummy and easy, thank you! We have dairy and chocolate allergies so I used Soy Milk and subbed the chocolate with Carob powder and carob chips. Carob is naturally sweeter than chocolate so it actually didn’t need any sweetner. Perfect for a cold winter’s day. Threw in a jumbo marshmallow for the kids too ;-)
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Wonderful! We’re so glad it turned out well with carob! Thank you for sharing, Irene! xo
DW says
I’m excited to try this recipe! Is the semi-sweet chocolate chopped before or after measuring 1 1/2T?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
After!
@inspriwithbri says
I used Orgain Protein Almond Milk for this recipe. Splashed in some lucuma along with the sugar. YUM!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for sharing, Bri!
Jennifer Lyman says
So delicious, I used monk fruit to sweeten and oat milk!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Lovely! Thank you for sharing, Jennifer! xoxo
Julia says
Rich cup of cocoa! Used oat milk and turned out delicious 😊
Yay! Thanks for sharing, Julia!
Sheila says
I was craving hot cocoa. It was 50-ish degrees in May. Made it exactly as written. Just what I needed! Thanks!
Ashley says
Oh my gosh!! So yummy! We are so thankful for this recipe! The only thing I did differently is used blue agave for the sweetener and we use almond whipped cream! Comes out perfect! Thanks for sharing!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Great! Thanks so much for sharing, Ashley! xo
Donna says
Oh, so good! I mixed it up a bit — omitted the semi-sweet chocolate, used 1.5 TBS cocoa and added a shot of decaf coffee. The cocoa/coffee /mint combination is divine!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Donna! Thanks so much for sharing!
Kim says
OMG! So amazing, creamy and rich. I have been craving a good cup pf hot chocolate and this is perfection. I added a little vanilla and a pinch of salt, I didn’t have coconut whipped cream. So Yummy!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay! We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Kim. Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Kim says
Okay, so I’ve made it again and it’s still amazing. I add a date to the pan while my almond milk heats up. Once it’s to temp , I toss it in the blender with the rest of the ingredients, minus the sugar. Frothy and yummy!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Yay!
TiaOrchid says
Best hot chocolate for this Canadian lockdown winter/warm. I just made this for my spouse and I. It was a total success. He absolutely loved it. Working from home has never been so fun. Thank you very much for all your recipes. I apologize, usually I do not leave reviews/rating. Will do from now on. Keep making those amazing recipes.
Thanks for sharing, Tia! xoxo!
Clarice says
So delicious!
I used Lindt 70% dark chocolate which made a really nice dark-flavoured hot chocolate, and I also only had soy milk, which still turned out really nice overall.
Thank you for this recipe!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Clarice! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Jan Simmons says
Perfect! Delicious! So fast and easy! Thank you so much!!!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Jan. We are so glad you enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Shelby Mayer says
Best recipe I’ve found for hot chocolate, I prefer mine a little less sweet so I halved the sugar. Tripled the recipe for the whole family and added a candy cane. Perfection! *Chef’s Kiss!*
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Shelby. We are so glad you and your family enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Nisha Harjani says
Love that this recipe is for one unlike most. Easy and delish and love that it’s microwave friendly! I used half oat milk half almond and coconut sugar for sweetener.. Thank you!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Nisha. We are so glad you enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Ashley says
This came out great! We used agave sweetener as that is what we had on hand. Thanks so much!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Ashley! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
tracy swords says
can i substitute the milk for pea milk or flax? We are also a nut free household.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We haven’t tried either, but it should work fine if you enjoy the flavors of those milks.
Rachel says
My first grader has been making this recipe almost every school day as part of her virtual learning routine. She’s so proud of doing everything herself!
We do use regular milk (since we get plenty of cartons from the school lunch program) and it turns out excellent every time.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Aw, we love that! Thanks so much for sharing, Rachel! xo
Amy says
This is so good! I didn’t know making homemade hot chocolate was so easy! I usually drink hot chocolate very rarely but now I might have it all the time.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Right?! We’re so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Amy! xoxo
Lakin says
My girlfriend wanted hot chocolate on a whim so I whipped this up for her in the microwave and she loved it! Thanks so much for sharing!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad she enjoyed it! Thanks for the lovely review, Lakin.
Jackie says
This recipe is bomb!! I used oat milk instead of almond and added 1/2 tbsp of sugar for sweetener. LOVE!
Yay! Thanks, Jackie!
Diedre says
FABULOUS!
Dana says
I made this last Christmas (2019) for my ladies Bible study group at our Christmas social. I took my Vitamix and all the ingredients and made it right there. Instead of extract, I bought some of those fat, soft peppermint sticks to be used as stir sticks. Everyone who tried it loved it. I had made this before at home and after having tried MANY vegan hot chocolate recipes over the years, I finally found this one, it’s perfect, by far the best tasting recipe! That is why I took it to our social. Unfortunately I left the recipe at my friend’s house. When I thought about it later and asked for it, she couldn’t find it. I couldn’t recall which website I obtained it from, so every so often throughout the year I asked if she’d found it. She always said no. A week ago this same friend sent me two vegan hot chocolate recipes saying “they can’t be that different”. I tried one, didn’t like it. Just today (10-16-20), she texted me that she found the recipe I had brought to her house 10 months ago for the social! Yay! My perfect hot chocolate drink just in time for winter !
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Aw, yay! We’re so glad you were reunited =) Thanks so much for the lovely review, Dana! xo
Caroline says
So yummy and comforting! Made this tonight with a splash of vanilla and almond milk whipped cream. Amazing!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing, Caroline!
Deena says
This hot chocolate is so comforting! I am feeling a little sad and am fighting a cold so this is just what I needed for lunch. Made with Ghiardellhi cocoa and ghiardellhi semi sweet chocolate, added a little less than 1 tablespoon of raw sugar. I topped with marshmallow fluff (not usual for me lol) and sprinkles!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Aw, hope it helped you feel better, Deena! xo
Jessica says
Gosh minimalist baker is a genius. This cocoa tastes just like Swiss miss, possibly better it’s been a long time since I’ve had it. But wow exactly what I wanted!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! We’re so glad you enjoyed it =) Thanks so much for the lovely review, Jessica!
Jess says
This is the best hot cocoa I’ve ever had at home, I’m never going back to packets!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Jess! xo
Ashley says
We usually use Penzey’s hot cocoa mix w almond milk but these are crazy times…could you give us a hot cocoa powder recipe? Without powdered milk?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Ashley, we’ll add that to our ideas list. In the meantime, we have an adaptogenic hot cocoa mix that you may be able to modify: https://minimalistbaker.com/adaptogenic-hot-chocolate-mix/
Lisa says
Yum’ just made some ? ty
Maryann Farrell says
Dandies vegan marshmallows added! These marshmallows are better then gelatin ones! They have a creamy vanilla taste and are so good in vegan cocoa!
tina says
Loved the recipe! I omitted the sugar completely, and switched peppermint extract with real mint and steeped it in the almond milk. Delish! I also used 68% real cacoa chocolate – no added sugar, etc. Added powdered sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, more mint to the “hot chocolate bar” so guests could personalize. Kept it in a large metal airpot thermos which “mixed” it each pump.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Very creative, Tina! Thanks for sharing!
Dana H says
I made this for my ladies Bible study Christmas gathering. So Easy! I brought my vitamix and the ingredients and walaah! I made a pitcher full by multiplying the ingredients to make 6 cups. I used an organic dark chocolate chip that my host had since mine were made in a facility that processed milk products and her daughter is deathly allergic & organic coco powder. I forgot my sweetener, I planned to use maple syrup, so I used my hosts lakanto brand monk fruit/eryrthritol blend, 1.5 TBL per cup. I blended it all in my vitamix on high. It took about 10 min to get hot. Everyone loved it! Hostess wanted the recipe.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks for sharing your experience, Dana! We’re so glad everyone enjoyed it! xo
Dana H says
So funny. I just made a comment about that same Christmas social (as Dana on 10-16-20) and talked about how the recipe got lost but now is found 10 months later! So the last part of the comment above, is that the hostess wanted the recipe. I forgot about that. My comment today (10-16-20) mentions that the printed recipe got “lost”. Makes me wonder if my friend “found” it because I kept bugging her about it for 10 months! LOL. (I know that’s not the case but sure is funny!)
Sarah Beth says
Simply the best. Decadent, not sweet, rich hot chocolate. Tastes so high-end. Puts SwissMiss to absolute shame. I’ve made with water, oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, and canned coconut milk. Always add a healthy pinch of salt. Sugar or maple syrup works. Cornstarch thickens, but isn’t necessary. My husband loves it with a shot of peppermint schnapps.
I make this often. I even gift the mixture in holidays bags. Always a success.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
What a great idea, Sarah! We’re so glad you enjoy this recipe! Thanks for sharing! xo
Raquel says
I microwaved half a cup of cashew milk for one minute and it got super thick! Mixed in about a teaspoon cacao powder and a teaspoon dark chocolate chips, a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of coconut sugar. Mmmm super thick and not sweet!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Raquel! Thanks for sharing!
Jennifer says
I meant to leave this 5 star rating with previous review:))))
Jennifer says
Thank you for the recipe! Made this impromptu for a group of non-vegans and everyone raved! Used almond milk but to thicken and make a bit richer, added some cashew cream I had left over from another recipe (just soaked cashews with filtered water in blender). Used a very decadent dark chopped Icelandic chocolate bar and added the peppermint flavoring. A major hit!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Thanks so much for the lovely review and for sharing your modifications, Jennifer. We are so glad everyone enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Kristen says
I made this and topped with marshmallows- it was delicious and my husband loved it too!
Smart! Thanks for sharing, Kristen!
South Jersey vegan says
Marshmallows aren’t vegan
Jackie says
You can get vegan marshmallows made with agar instead of gelatin.
Kelly Davis says
Can you sweeten with maple syrup and get similar results?
dezi says
no u cant
Brittany says
This truly warmed my heart. It tastes like what you imagine hot chocolate should taste like. Personally, I like mine to have a thicker consistency, so I added a little bit of cornstarch :)
Thank You!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Smart! Thanks for sharing, Brittany!
Carolina Pelaez Llopis says
I made this recipe with some cornstarch and it turned out just as I love my hot chocolate!! Thanks <3
Kat says
I made this recipe tonight with vanilla extract, stirring in a teaspoon of coconut oil instead of coconut whip (didn’t have any on hand) and including a pinch of salt. This is easily my favorite vegan hot cocoa I’ve made so far and with this combination of ingredients, is easily a pantry staple in my house. I’ve worked so hard to find proportions I like that I copied it down in my recipe box. Thanks for another great recipe, Dana.
Deborah says
Tasty! I added about 1/2 cup more of almond milk and a good pinch of salt! Thank you!
Deana Tanguay says
I just made this and I am in heaven! Thank you! I used oat milk (what I had), Cacao powder (what I had), pascha 100 percent Cacao Chocolate Chips unsweetened, and peppermint extract and NO sweeteners and it is AMAZING! Thank you so much. The best!
Britt says
I just made a big batch for my whole family after a snowperson building marathon and it was loved all around. I subbed canned coconut milk for half the milk since I wanted over the top decadence, exchanged the sugar for an equal amount of maple syrup, and then let my kiddos customize. One chose a bit of orange extract, two went with peppermint, and I went the Mexican route with cinnamon and Chile. All were amazing.
Thank you for constantly being my go-to for veganizing all of our family favorites.
Vanessa Tabick says
My husband and I tried your vegan hot cocoa recipe for the first time tonight. We enjoyed it very much and will be making it during this winter season. Since I have a dairy allergy, I thought I would not be able to drink hot cocoa again but you have made it possible. Mind was blown by how good it was.
Yesenia Guerrero says
Can I use cashew milk?
Becca Walker says
I make this recipe all the time for parties! It’s always a hit. Even non-vegans are impressed with how good it tastes and *it’s vegan*!!!
Just for fun, I put a shot of Kahlua in each cup.
Thank you for this great recipe!
xoxo!
Whitney Flaum says
Yummy! I never thought I could have a hot chocolate this good since I’m lactose intolerant. Thank you!
Linda says
One of my children is vegan and the rest of the family is not, but I am interested in a more plant-based diet. Where do I find chocolate that is dairy free? Can this mix be made up in bulk and then just use milk of choice?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Most grocery stores carry vegan chocolate! The best way to make sure chocolate is vegan is to quickly scan the ingredients. Good chocolate should only have a few, so it’ll just take a second. Look out for tricky ingredients like whey or casein, which are milk derived. Hope this helps!
Alyssa says
I just made this and holy no-cow!!!! It is DELICIOUS! (I added some dairy-free Redi-Whip.) This will be my go-to recipe now.
Thank you!
Kristi says
This is seriously the best hot chocloate ever! I’m never buying from Starbucks again ?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Whoop!
Shea S says
Loved this simple yet delicious hot cocoa. I threw all the ingredients in my vitamix. I added some cinnamon and pinch coarse sea salt. This going to be my new favorite go to for hot cocoa. Thanks for the recipe.
Abbigail says
I have made at least two other recipes for vegan hot chocolate before trying this one, and the other two were just a tad bitter, but this one was perfect! I didn’t have any extract but the four main ingredients I had on hand, and it turned out great. I even had some vegan marshmallows so I put those on top. Very delicious, thank you so much for sharing this simple recipe. I think that adding the chocolate bar, not just the cocoa powder, made the difference.
I was telling my dad as I was making it that it wasn’t fair to live in a world without hot chocolate, and here I am, living the dream. Thanks again!
Pratibha says
Simple and awesome recipe. I added a little bit of no flavor coconut oil to this and whisked it. It comes out really creamy!
Heather says
The BEST vegan hot chocolate I have every had!! TRY IT… you won’t be disappointed :D
Heather says
*****5 STARS
The BEST vegan hot chocolate I have every had!! TRY IT… you won’t be disappointed :D
Megan says
Perfect!
Shannon says
BEST hot chocolate ever! Made mine with homemade almond milk.
Keigan says
Best hot cocoa I’ve ever had! Not sure what took me so long to make it!!
Venessia says
This is probably a weird question but is there a vegan white hot chocolate recipe? My oldest dislikes chocolate unless it’s Oreos or KitKat’s lol.
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi! We don’t (yet) but I am going to add it to our recipe request list as one to tackle! Thanks Venessia!
Opal says
I loved this recipe! I didn’t have almond milk, so I used soy…it was so delicious! It was rich and creamy and just perfect for a cold winter day. Thank you! I love your site and recipes.
Renee says
I realize this was published a while ago, but the fact that I’m commenting all this time later is a testament to how ridiculous this is. Too. Freaking. Delicious. Thank you!!
Emily says
I went the vanilla route instead of the peppermint route. And then… I added peanut butter powder! So so so good. Peanut butter and chocolate fans NEED that addition!
Lynn says
Would this recipe fare well in a crock pot and on a large scale?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
I think so, Lynn!
Fatimah says
My daughter just said “can I give you a hug because this is so good? ” then proceeded to give me a hug. So good!
Melissa says
It says cocoa powder, would there be much of a difference if I used cocao instead? I’m actually not sure where to get unsweetened cocoa powder. I’ve been following these recipes for years. My uncles daughter is vegan and we have been slowly converting him. This is the first recipe I’ve seen him share on fb abs he said he likes this recipe better than the traditional “hot cocoa” he drinks. So good to hear!!
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
Hi Melissa! Yes you can!
Jen says
i have been eating a plant based diet for a couple years now and have so missed my hot chocolate!! I have tried some other recipes but they were gross but THIS ONE!!!! WOW!! I am smiling and giddy right now as i drink this delicious hot chocolate!!!! thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe says
I had this incredibly spur of the moment craving for hot chocolate, tried this recipe, and OHMYGOD IT WAS SO DELICIOUS I DIED BUT IN A GOOD WAY!!!! I added the vanilla extract because I didn’t have peppermint (though that sounds even more delicious, if that’s even possible) and whipped coconut cream and the level of INSANELY GOOD soared even higher. Cannot WAIT to snuggle up this Christmas to open presents while drinking THIS! 10/10 would recommend do yourself a favor and just MAKE THIS. I threw the whole thing together in under 3 minutes and used the microwave and it was the PERFECT dessert <3333333
Claire says
I made this after realizing we have no packets of hot cocoa. Im lactose intolerant but not vegan so I used regular chocolate chips but had almond milk. This is way better than Swiss Miss type stuff and it’s as creamy as it’d be with regular milk. I added a splash of peppermint schnapps to add even more fun to it, and it goes perfectly in this recipe!
Dee says
So easy & creamy! Hits the spot <3
Allison says
Thank you so much for sharing this recipe. I recently had to give up dairy and the hardest part was giving up milk. Hot chocolate was something I really enjoyed, especially on a cold day. I tried other recipes, but didn’t like any of them. This recipe is rich and creamy and doesn’t taste like its made with almond milk. I am so excited! I added a tiny bit of vanilla and its perfect. Again, thank you! This type of recipe make tough diet changes much easier!!
Maria Portillo says
So yummy yet so easy. Thanks
Marian gravel says
Wow this was really delicious!!! I googled a recipe at my daughters request for a hot chocolate with almond milk. I was really impressed, I did not miss the milk at all. It’s actually one of the best cups of hot cocoa I’ve ever had. I just took a little bit out of my daughters cup — it was so rich and delicious I was satisfied with that.
I loved it as- is but My 17 year old daughter found it a little too chocolatey and added 1/4 to 1/3 cup more almond milk.
Angie says
Yummy.
Danielle Banks says
I really should comment more often, because I love you blog! But I made this in about 5 mins, and added a candy cane left over from the holidays for peppermint hot chocolate. This is absolutely delicious!
Tracy says
Wow! So much better than I anticipated!! This recipe is a keeper!
Michelle says
Such a good recipe; I’m so glad you posted this! I made my own version, using 3/4 cup almond-coconut milk + 1/4 of vanilla bean-infused almond milk creamer, and 1 T of coconut sugar for sweetening. The drink is delicious on its own, as well as with a shot of espresso added in. I want to try making the recipe next with the peppermint extract as suggested. Thanks!
Melinda Cloud says
Is there a recipe on how to make this in bulk for gift-giving? I’m in the last-minute “argh!” phase and I would love to give this hot cocoa mix as gifts AND do “secretly” healthy for those who pish posh the urgency in our taking care of our bodies by not putting in chemicals, etc. Also, is there such a thing as dry almond or soy or hemp milk? I have seen other recipes calling for dry milk. Thank you ever so much!
Unfortunately I don’t think so! I’ve looked for those myself. But you could just gift it with shelf-stable dairy-free milk!
Lucy Jackson says
Use Coconut Milk Powder, if you want a mix that you can just add to water. Here is an example of a vegan one:
https://www.amazon.com/Coconut-Milk-Powder-Certified-Organic/dp/B00M8M2SKS
I bought mine in bulk at a Bulk Barn store.
Lindsay Schroeder says
Can I use raw cacao powder instead of cocoa?
of course!
Melissa says
Nm….I just asked the same thing before I saw this!
Kelly says
I made this today for my kids after they came in from being out in the snow. I had some, too, of course! It was really good! We give it 20 stars (5 stars from the 4 of us). ? ☕ I’ll definitely be making this again!!
Kacie says
Can I make this using flax or hemp milk?? …almond allergies…. ?
Yep!
Courtney says
Used this amazing recipe for a hot-cocoa sale today at my dental school :) one girl told me, “this is better than Starbucks!” It was delicious and everyone loved it. Thanks, Dana!
Ashley says
This is the easiest quickest most delicious hot chocolate!! I am a hot chocoholic and now I can make it anytime I want! Thank you!!!
Jen says
My husband and I are trying to transition from vegetarian to vegan. All afternoon, I was craving hot chocolate from the local donut shop, but I have no clue what is in it. This was the first recipe that came up when I googled “vegan hot chocolate.” I have yet to try a recipe from this website (and the cookbook) that I don’t like. This is yet another winner! I just added a pinch of salt because the hot chocolate I am used to has a bit of a salty kick to it.
Julie says
I made this without having to run to the store for any ingredients! It was so rich and delicious. I am lactose intolerant but I’m not vegetarian, yet I try to eat healthier. Your blog is also really helpful for me since I have a number of friends who are vegetarian or vegan and gluten free. Thanks for the recipe!
Sydney Anne Hughes says
I am lactose intolerant and was wondering, that even though this delicouse resipe has no milk at all, dose the coco will still have milk in it? By the way i love your post! They look deliciouse and i cant wait to try this out! Thanks!
Nope! This is dairy free.
Angela says
I a so happy I found you site. I love the simplicity of these recipes. Thank you so much and keep up the good work. I know I will love this hot chocolate.
Nancy says
Hi Dana,
I truly enjoy your site, my husband and I have just transitioned to vegan/vegetarian for health reasons. Finding good recipes for old time favorites is the toughest part. This looks wonderful.
I have always like orange hint in my hot chocolate, any recommendation how to incorporate that?
Jazmine S says
Let me tell you, this hot chocolate is soooooo good! Something about good ol traditional gets me every time! I’m currently pregnant and I almost broke down in the store and cried because out of 20 different hot chocolates, not a single one of them were vegan! They all had milk! I quickly googled this recipe and found the simple items right there in the store in less than 5 minutes. I used Almond lite vanilla milk (which is semi sweet) and light agave nectar for my sweetener. Unfortunately the store was out of vegan whipped cream but to be honest this recipe doesn’t need it! It’s that dang good! Thank you for sharing?
Anna Cooley says
This was delicious! I made this for the first time during my semester finals and it was amazing. I have been drinking this as a treat through the winter, sometimes I add coconut extract for an Almond Joy kind of taste.
Thank you for all of the scrumptious recipes!
Jennifer says
Thanks for this! I had been looking for a vegan hot chocolate. It was really good! I did use less sugar, but that was because the only almond milk I had wasn’t sugarless. :) It was perfect because it was ingredients that I already had at home, and I was snowed in.
jsmithwc says
After growing into a pesky dairy allergy at 27 I’ve missed a good hot chocolate. This is super easy and delicious! I added a dash of vanilla extract to mine. Thank you for the recipe!!
Daniella says
Amazing and so simple! I added a shot of espresso to make it a mocha. I’m officially hooked.
Patsy says
I love this recipe! I usually add a little blackstrap molasses to mine for a boost of iron and calcium. It also gives it a nice tangy dimension.
Tiffany says
Delicious delicious delicious……..thank you for the recipe so glad I came across it and I already had the ingredients in the cupboard. …….drinking it now yum yum
Angela says
5 stars!! This recipe is the best homemade hot cocoa recipe I’ve ever tried! I have tried several in an attempt to make a healthy homemade version and all of them were awful, until this one! And it’s vegan, double bonus! Thank you soo much for creating this recipe. Even my non-veg husband thinks this is delicious! :)
Sybil says
My family has recently discovered we need to be gluten and lactose free! This has been a sudden difficult adjustment for our family. However, with easy YUMMIE recipes like this, all will be well!!
Thank you so much!!!
Donna says
Best hot cocoa recipe I have ever used!!! So good!
Diana says
We can’t do almond milk…would soy or coconut work as the best substitute? Thank you!
Kat says
Oh my…I’m thinking this plus a shot of espresso! It may be summer now but I’m looking forward to the chill just to make this recipe.
Smart lady! Hope you love it, Kat!
Stephanie says
I double the recipe using whole milk and an extra T raw sugar. It’s awesome! Thank you! Adding to the home recipe collection.
Wonderful! Glad you liked it, Stephanie!
Cyndi says
Without a doubt, the BEST hot cocoaI have ever had/made. Thanks a million for the recipe! :)
Helen Gatenby Holt says
Delicious made this last night before bed to warm up. I used rice milk but still thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks.
Jodi says
Yesterday I made a small batch of almond milk using almonds I had soaked overnight. When I was done whirring it in my Vitamix, it was HOT. So, I thought, hmmm, why not just make this into hot chocolate??? So, I reached for some cocoa powder, Truvia, a dash of vanilla extract, tossed it into the hot almond milk in the Vitamix, “zhuzzed” it for a while, making it even hotter (I think), and then poured it into a mug. It looked fabulous but alas, it wasn’t the *best* because it was lacking the chocolate-y ness that the addition of chocolate (as you indicate here!) would bring, but it was a really fun way to make it. I felt like I had just, like, I dunno, discovered America.
This weekend, I’m going to get some fun extract and chocolate and try it again — and will post it to Instagram! Thank you for this simple recipe!
Sara says
Hey Dana,
Great post! I have a quick question. Does your almond milk get a ‘curdle-like’ consistency when heating it in the microwave? The hot chocolate tastes fine, but I see little clumps floating at the top.
Thanks!
Velinda says
This is so good! I haven’t made this on the stove yet, but it comes out perfect in the microwave. I’ll be drinking this all winter!
Yay!!!! That makes two of us :D
Katy says
So glad I found this! It is getting me through finals. Thank you so much! I had everything and it is perfect- takes enough time to be a study break and makes even the toughest subject bearable. I will also be using this when my roommates (non vegan) and I (vegan) have our holiday movie binge! Can’t wait to explore your blog more.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Lauren says
Yes!! I was craving something sweet and this totally hit the spot. So simple too. This will be my family’s go to recipe every winter. I may have added some vegan marshmallows to mine too.. don’t judge me. :)
Great, thanks for sharing, Lauren!
Melissa Black says
This is absolutely delicious! My husband, kids all love this. This is perfect on cool fall and winter nights. I make it on the stove top whisking it all together and it is fantastic. Thank you so much for publishing!!! LOVE IT.
Joanna @ Everyday Made Fresh says
Drinking this as we speak! Did a Google search, ran across yours and made it…fantastic!!
John says
Don’t forget the coconut whipped cream on top!
rebecca says
Hi Dana,
Do you know how I might translate this (the powder, chips & sugar) to make in bulk? I’d love to keep it on hand in the pantry all ready to go :)
Thanks so much–I love your blog!
Rebecca
Hmm, I’d just multiply the dry ingredients by however many you have room for (maybe 10x?) and then add to your warm wet ingredients to taste!
Kenzie says
Thank you for the awesome, simple, delicious recipe! I never tried making it on my own, nor had I bought any since going vegan almost two years ago. So simple, I had all the ingredients and whipped it right up….delicious!!
Great! Thanks for sharing, Kenzie!
Silvia says
I just tried your recipe and is the best. I used vanilla extract but I can’t wait to try it with peppermint extract. Thank you Danna for this great and easy way to make my favorite winter treat… YUM!!!
Sara says
And I didn’t even tell you that I did indeed go forth with trying this recipe and it was super yummy! I only had sea salt dark chocolate (52% cacao) unfortunately but it still was good! I used raw coconut sugar and raw cacao powder too because that is also all that I had. :)
Sara says
auto-correct errors, you understand I hope!
Sara says
Thanks for sharing doll! Trying tonight! Curious, what do you use to get a white background with your images?
white poster board!
Sara says
Thank you! such a speedy response and I appreciate it :) I’ve always been curious! I used to have a beauty blog WAY back. I absolutely love your blog and will be a frequent visitor for recipes/ideas! I have been eating vegan now for a few months. Sending love & light your way, best wishes!
Nancy Andres says
I drink cocoa all year round because I love the flavor and health benefit. I make a simpler version. Just boil water in a tea kettle (I don’t like to use a microwave), add organic dark cocoa and organic stevia, and chug it down. If I want to splurge, I add a shake of cinnamon on top.
Bryony says
Just about to make this with coconut milk – because it’s summer and i’m feeling tropical.
PS. Your blog is delicious – my latest obsession.
Lovely! Thanks for sharing hello! Hope you enjoyed the drink!
Alisa says
Oh my gosh! I have tried many different recipes on this, and this is the one! Soo good (: Thank you <3
Well, consider me honored! ;D
Stacie says
My daughter (3 yrs old) was watching Frozen the other night and started begging for Hot Cocoa, which I did not have, then I remembered seeing this on your site! She loved it and insisted that daddy have a cup when he got home from work! Thank you!
Yay! So glad I could help in a hot cocoa pinch. Cheers!
Jenny @ BAKE says
This sounds absolutely delicious, I might have to give it a try tonight!
Tara | Treble in the Kitchen says
YUM! This looks delicious and beautiful!
Carole says
It’s snowing again here today, I almost cried!! …buuuuuut now I have this awesome recipe to look forward too!! I bet a pinch of cayenne would be delish in this too!! I have to try that coconut whipped cream too!!!
Nikki @ Quest for Balance says
I’m definitely making this tonight after coming home from walking the pooch in this crazy snow storm.
Sarah says
How many calories is it with out the whipped cream?
About 40-60 less :D
Megan - The Emotional Baker says
Yum, Yum, Yum! I love the sounds of this – especially with a hint of peppermint!
Katrina @ WVS says
Gotta love simple stuff like this! so much goodness!
Alanna says
Lovely recipe, Ms. Dana! This looks like vegan chocolate perfection. I’ve been making something similar with chile and cinnamon, but I never thought to top it with coconut whipped cream – hubba hubba indeed! :D
You would add chile and cinnamon, because you’re SO CLASSY AND CREATIVE. So glad we’re internet friends now. What did I ever do without your sophisticated influence? ;D (p.s. I hope you start saying hubba hubba all the time now. That would make my year.)
Alanna says
What a sweet thing to say! I’m glad I’ve tricked you into thinking I’m classy and creative when I’m really just copying the hot chocolate they serve at my favorite Mexican restaurant. :) (p.s. I’ve said “hubba hubba” to myself at least five times today, teehee!)
Amanda @ Once Upon a Recipe says
Considering it is minus one billion outside right now, this is totally happening later today. I even have all of the ingredients on hand. Can’t wait!
Hannah @ CleanEatingVeggieGirl says
Yum!!! I seriously cannot wait to try this tonight! :)
Do it! I’m doing it RIGHT NOW ;D
Brie @ Entrée the Giant says
A little almond extract instead of the peppermint and you’ve got yourself an Almond Joy in a mug. Candy bar in a liquid form? Uh, yes please.
WHAT? mind blown.
Elle says
It just made my day when I realized I had all of those ingredients right on hand. Off I go to whip some up!! Thanks for sharing :)
xo Elle
Hillary | Nutrition Nut on the Run says
do you take your photos with a white background/table? i just LOVE all the new posts with the WHITE :)
White photos are typically taken with a white poster board background :D Thanks for the kind words! I’ve been enjoying the bright white photos as well :D
Sarah Grace says
Simple yet delicious. How everything should be made! I love this as I always make my own hot chocolate using almond milk and cacao powder :)
xoxo Sarah Grace
My philosophy exactly. I need to try mine with cacao powder – it’s just so darn pricey!
Ann Oliverio says
3-day forecast highs:
25
23
34
Hot chocolate and space heaters are really the only sane answer.
AMEN
Maryea {happy healthy mama} says
5 minutes? I’m in! This looks like a perfect afternoon treat for me while the little ones are napping. :)
Sounds like the perfect nap plan to me :D
annie @ chase that i love says
Homemade hot chocolate is the best because it actually tastes like chocolate. Instead of sugar. Great way to warm up on a chilly day!
Angela @ Happy Fit Mama says
I love the simplicity. This definitely deserves a HUBBA HUBBA!
Hippy Mom says
Love your recipe. Im still working on the lava cakes, the beets are roasted and are being used today.Yep… IM A TALKER. I was drawn to your site because I like that you post often. And I like you go both ways. Veg .and Vegan well …one love
haha, thanks! I like vegan and vegetarian meals alike. Glad you understand me!
Jessica says
Hi Dana,
This recipe looks delish along with the rest of your website :D I was wondering if it would be okay to make this with soy milk? Thanks!!
Right? ;D Thanks Angela!
Angelina says
Can I ude home made oatmilk in sted of almondmilk ?
Support @ Minimalist Baker says
We don’t recommend using homemade oat milk as upon heating up it will thicken and become gelatinous in texture. Perhaps another nut milk, Angelina?