Healthy Hot Chocolate
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.There’s nothing better than a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate to cozy up with on a chilly day. My healthy hot chocolate recipe is creamy, fragrant, and packed with rich chocolate flavor. It’s low in added sugars, gluten-free, and ready in just 10 minutes, a treat my whole family loves.
I created this recipe because I adore hot chocolate during the holidays, but I wanted a version that’s lower in sugar and calories, something I could enjoy every day instead of just once in a while. Just like my vegan coquito, this recipe is proof that comfort food can be both delicious and healthy!
Who doesn’t love a cozy cup of hot chocolate when the weather turns chilly? On sunny winter days, I like to fill my to-go cup with my healthy hot chocolate and head to the park while my kids play. Of course, I always pack some snacks for them, usually my ginger snap cookies because what’s hot chocolate without a little something sweet on the side?
👩🏽🍳 Why I Love This Recipe
Hot chocolate has always been my go-to comfort drink, but so many store-bought mixes are loaded with sugar and artificial flavors. That’s why I love making this healthy version at home. It’s naturally sweetened, dairy-free (if you want it to be!), and just as indulgent as the classic.
I make my healthy hot chocolate recipe with just a few pantry staples: unsweetened cocoa powder, a touch of backstrap molasses for natural sweetness, and my favorite milk. The real secret, though, is the pinch of Ceylon cinnamon. That little hint of warmth takes the chocolatey flavor to a whole new level. It is perfect for when I’m craving something cozy but still want to feel good about what I’m sipping.
And let me tell you, this hot cocoa isn’t just my treat, it’s a family favorite! My kids absolutely love it! Whenever they have friends over for a PJ sleepover, I make a big batch, and I don’t have to worry about a thing because it’s healthy, low in sugar, gluten-free, and packed with rich cocoa flavor.
Honestly, I couldn’t ask for a better recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and so comforting, but it also fits perfectly into our busy lives. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a night filled with giggles and sleepover chaos, my healthy hot chocolate has become my go-to. And the best part? It brings everyone together, one cozy sip at a time 😉
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🥘 Ingredients
I love how warm and comforting this healthy hot chocolate recipe is, and I made it with simple ingredients so you can enjoy it too.
Milk: I use 1% milk for a creamy texture without needing whole milk or cream. It adds just enough healthy fat to make this cocoa feel rich, not watered down.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: I always go for high-quality unsweetened cocoa or raw cacao powder. It’s rich and chocolatey, like a dark chocolate bar, without all the added sugar of cocoa mix.
Vanilla Extract and Molasses: A little vanilla and molasses add natural sweetness and a touch of rich, cozy flavor.
Spices: I blend Ceylon cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cardamom, and cloves for a warm, wintry vibe that makes every sip feel festive.
🔪 How to Make
It’s time for the best part, making this recipe in 3 steps! You’ll be amazed at how quick and simple it is, and I’ve got step-by-step photos to make it even easier.
Step 1: I start by whisking together the cocoa powder, all the spices, and a pinch of sea salt in a small bowl. It’s so simple, just mix everything from the ingredients list except the milk, and you’re ready to go!
Step 2: I heat a large saucepan over medium heat on the stovetop, then pour in half the milk. Next, I add the cocoa powder mixture and whisk it all together until it’s smooth and free of any lumps, it’s already starting to smell amazing
Step 3: I pour in the rest of the milk and whisk everything together until it’s perfectly combined. Then, I gently heat the hot chocolate until it’s nice and warm, but not boiling, so it stays creamy and smooth.
Time to serve! I pour the warm, creamy cinnamon hot chocolate into mugs, and it’s ready to enjoy. There’s nothing better than sipping on this cozy, chocolatey treat!
💭 Expert Tips
My #1 Secret Tip for keeping my healthy hot chocolate perfect is to never let it boil. I always watch closely as I heat it on the stove, waiting for those tiny bubbles to form around the edges of the pot, that’s when I know it’s just right. If it starts to boil, the milk can scald and lose its creamy, dreamy texture, so I like to take my time and keep the heat low.
Other Tips To Keep In Mind:
- Homemade Whipped Cream: For a touch of indulgence, I like to top my hot chocolate with homemade whipped cream. It’s easy, just whip heavy cream until it forms peaks, no sugar needed!
- Blender Shortcut: When I’m short on time, I toss all the ingredients into a blender for a quick mix. Then I just heat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Zero Added Sugar Option: If you want no added sugar, skip the molasses. It’ll taste like super dark chocolate, bitter but still flavorful thanks to the spices and the milk’s natural sweetness.
📖 Variations
I’m amazed by how flexible this healthy hot chocolate recipe can be, it’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for adding your own creative twists!
Vegan Hot Chocolate: I make this dairy-free by swapping in almond, coconut, oat, or soy milk, so easy and just as creamy! It’s perfect for anyone avoiding dairy but still craving a rich hot cocoa.
Lower Sugar or Sweetener Swaps: If I’m out of molasses or want a different flavor, I use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. For a sugar-free option, monk fruit sweetener works like a charm!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: For a fun twist, I switch the spices for a few drops of peppermint extract,, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. It’s super refreshing and feels like the holidays in a mug!
Spicy Hot Chocolate: When I’m feeling adventurous, I add a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold, Mexican-inspired flavors!
🍽 Serving Suggestions
I enjoy serving my healthy hot cocoa just as it is, or dressing it up with a few fun toppings! You can keep it classic with homemade whipped cream, dark chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows for an extra treat.
Other fun mix-ins: I love are toffee bits, crushed mints, or candy canes, and let me tell you, using a whole candy cane as a stirrer is such a game-changer! Not only does it add a lovely peppermint flavor, but it also feels so festive. I remember the first time my kids tried it, they thought it was the coolest thing ever and now insist on candy canes every time we make hot chocolate.
Toppings: sometimes, I like to get a little fancy and sprinkle some coarse sea salt on top, it’s incredible how a tiny pinch brings out the chocolate flavor. And when I’m in the mood for something extra indulgent, a drizzle of caramel, chocolate sauce, or even melted peanut butter does the trick.
🧊 Storage Directions
Refrigeration: I pop it in the fridge, where it stays fresh for 2-3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed up tight!
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing it because the milk doesn’t hold up well, so I always stick with refrigerating.
Reheating: When I’m ready for another cozy mug, I just give it a good stir and warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. It tastes just as good the second time.
❓Recipe FAQs
Should you make hot chocolate with milk or hot water?
Technically, you can make hot chocolate with either milk or water, but I always go for milk, and here’s why: first, it gives the drink a creamier, richer texture that feels so indulgent. Plus, it adds a boost of protein, which makes it a little more satisfying. Water can highlight the cocoa’s flavor, but it just doesn’t have the same thick and luscious feel that I love in a good hot chocolate!
What is the difference between cocoa powder and cacao powder?
Cacao powder is a great option when I want something natural and nutrient-packed. It’s considered “raw” because the cocoa beans are fermented, processed at low temperatures, and then milled into powder. While it’s more bitter than cocoa powder, it retains more minerals and nutrients since it’s less processed.
Cocoa powder, on the other hand, is made by fermenting the beans and then roasting them at higher temperatures. This gives it a milder, sweeter flavor with less acidity, which I love for its versatility. While it might lose some natural nutrients during roasting, it’s still a much healthier choice than using whole chocolate to make hot chocolate!
Why is hot chocolate not healthy?
Most hot chocolate isn’t exactly a healthy treat, did you know that just 1 cup (8 oz) of traditional hot chocolate packs 250-300 calories and a whopping 35 grams of sugar? That’s nearly as much sugar as two full-sized Snickers bars! The good news? You can satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free with my easy hot chocolate recipe. It’s low-calorie, with only 5 grams of added sugar and under 200 calories for a generous 12 oz cup!
What are the best brands of hot chocolate mixes?
I have found the best hot chocolate powders are organic, naturally sourced, and have minimal added sugar. Whole Foods, Dagoba, and Silly Cow Farms all have great options.
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🎥 Watch How to Make It
Healthy Hot Chocolate
There’s nothing better than a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate to cozy up with on a chilly day. My healthy hot chocolate recipe is creamy, fragrant, and packed with rich chocolate flavor. It’s low in added sugars, gluten-free, and ready in just 10 minutes, a treat my whole family loves.
Servings: 1 person
Calories: 187kcal
Ingredients
- 1½ cups 1% Organic Milk
- 1 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- ½ tsp ceylon cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- ⅛ tsp ginger powder
- 1 tsp backstrap molasses
- 1 pinch ground cardamon
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. In a small bowl whisk together the cocoa powder, all of the spices, and salt (everything on the ingredients list except the milk).
- Pour half the milk into the saucepan and add in the cocoa powder mixture. Whisk until smooth and all the lumps are removed. Add the rest of the milk and whisk together until combined. Heat the hot chocolate mixture until very warm (but not boiling). Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy!
Notes
- To make my healthy hot chocolate perfect is to never let it boil. I always watch closely as I heat it on the stove, waiting for those tiny bubbles to form around the edges of the pot, that’s when I know it’s just right. If it starts to boil, the milk can scald and lose its creamy, dreamy texture, so I like to take my time and keep the heat low.
- For a touch of indulgence, I like to top my hot chocolate with homemade whipped cream. It’s easy, just whip heavy cream until it forms peaks, no sugar needed!
- When I’m short on time, I toss all the ingredients into a blender for a quick mix. Then I just heat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- If you want no added sugar, skip the molasses. It’ll taste like super dark chocolate, bitter but still flavorful thanks to the spices and the milk’s natural sweetness.
Nutrition
Serving: 12oz | Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 199mg | Potassium: 727mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 24g
Mmmmm… just had this with your oatmeal cookies!
Yummy!
Thanks!
Aw yay!! So happy you liked this recipe Shanny! 🙂
This was such a fun and unique way to jazz up boring hot chocolate! Love the added cinnamon; hands down delicious!
Yay! So glad you liked this recipe Sara! 🙂
I love cinnamon hot chocolate so I love that this is a healthier option!
Thanks so much!! Enjoy!
This is going to be my substitution for my coffee addiction. I love chocolate too especially with the cinnamon flavor!
This is a great substitute for coffee! A total pick me up without the caffeine!
I’m a big fan of flavored hot chocolate. This cinnamon hot chocolate is right up my alley.
Thanks Andrea! Enjoy!
This was so decadent and I love the addition of spices, especially cinnamon! My kids and I loved this and I felt so much better making it from scratch.
Aw yay! So happy to hear that Cyndy!
It was delicious. The whole family loved it.I topped it with a little whip cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon
Aw yay! I’m so happy to hear that! 🙂
I made a mug of this last night and it was so incredible! Thanks so much for sharing the recipe!
Yay!! I’m so happy to hear that Jessica! 🙂
I love all the spices. I’ve never tried making hot chocolate with the addition of spices before, but it’s actually very delicious and feels more grown-up. 🙂
Yes!! I feel like this is just a “dressed up” version of traditional hot chocolate!
Mmmmm I love hot chocolate and adding cinnamon is always a good thing.
Totally!! It’s perfect for the winter!
My family really enjoyed this! So comforting!
So happy to hear that Toni! 🙂
I love how the spices give this so much depth! It’s delicious!
Yay!! Thanks Mary!! So glad you liked it!