Description
This Vegan Hot Chocolate recipe is a rich and creamy dairy-free treat made with 70% dark chocolate, oat milk, and lite coconut milk, sweetened naturally with maple syrup. Enhanced with espresso powder and vanilla, it delivers a warm, comforting beverage perfect for any cozy moment. Topped with vegan whipped cream or marshmallows, it’s an indulgent yet plant-based twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 6 ounces (170g) 70% dark chocolate, chopped
- 4 cups (960 mL) oat milk (or soy milk)
- 1 (13.5-ounce/400 mL) can of “lite” coconut milk
Sweeteners & Flavorings
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (80g) or organic cane sugar (50g), plus more to taste
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder or instant coffee powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (48g) Dutch process cocoa powder
Toppings (Optional)
- Vegan whipped cream or whipped topping
- Vegan marshmallows
- Dairy-free chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the oat milk and lite coconut milk to a 4-quart (4L) saucepan or Dutch oven to avoid overflow. Then add the chopped dark chocolate, maple syrup or sugar, espresso powder if using, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Sift the Dutch process cocoa powder directly into the pan to remove clumps, making it easier to whisk and blend smoothly.
- Simmer and Whisk: Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a rapid simmer while whisking frequently. This helps incorporate the cocoa powder thoroughly into the milk. Maintain the simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, whisking occasionally as the hot chocolate thickens slightly. Watch carefully as the mixture expands when simmering; lower the heat as needed to prevent it from bubbling over.
- Cool and Adjust Sweetness: Remove from heat and let the hot chocolate cool for 5 to 10 minutes to avoid burning your mouth. Whisk once more and taste the beverage. Sweeten further with additional maple syrup or sugar if desired. Finally, serve topped with vegan whipped cream, marshmallows, or dairy-free chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent touch. Enjoy your creamy vegan hot chocolate!
Notes
- Use a 4-quart or larger pan to prevent boiling over during simmering.
- Sifting cocoa powder is important to avoid lumps in your hot chocolate.
- Adjust sweetness according to your preference after cooling.
- Add espresso powder for a mocha flavor enhancement, but this is optional.
- Using dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content ensures a rich chocolate flavor while keeping it vegan.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Keywords: vegan hot chocolate, dairy-free hot chocolate, oat milk hot chocolate, plant-based beverage, winter drink, vegan cocoa
