Vegan Hot Chocolate
This Vegan Hot Chocolate is luxury in a glass! A decadent blend of cocoa powder, dark chocolate, and two kinds of dairy-free milk result in a dreamy, warming winter drink. It’s a luxe, grown-up version of the classic.
- Prep time
- 3 min
- Cook time
- 15 min
- Yield
- 8 servings
- Difficulty
- MEDIUM
Ingredients
- 6 oz (170g) 70% dark chocolate, chopped ((see Note 1) )
- 4 cup (960 mL) oat milk (or soy milk)
- 1 (13.5-ounce/400 mL) can of “lite” coconut milk ((see Note 2) )
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (80g) or organic cane sugar (50g), (plus more to taste (see Note 3) )
- 2 tsp espresso powder or instant coffee powder ((optional))
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract ((see Note 4) )
- 1/2 cup (48g) Dutch process cocoa powder ((see Note 5) )
- vegan whipped cream or whipped topping,
- vegan marshmallows
- dark chocolate, shaved with a peeler (or chocolate chips) ((see Note 6) )
Instructions
- 1
Add the oat milk and lite coconut milk to a 4-quart / 4L (or larger) saucepan or Dutch oven (to prevent overflow, see Note 7). Add the chopped chocolate, maple syrup or sugar, espresso (if using), salt, and vanilla. Use a fine mesh sieve or sifter to sift the cocoa powder directly into the pan (or sift in advance, then add). Sifting removes the clumps, making it easier to whisk.
- 2
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking frequently to incorporate the cocoa powder into the milk. NOTE: When it first comes to a simmer, it will expand in volume and rise upwards, so pay attention and lower the heat as needed to prevent it from bubbling up!Adjust the heat to maintain a simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, whisking occasionally until the hot chocolate has slightly thickened (it will thicken quite a bit more as it rests). TIP: Be sure to not cook at too high heat, as you don't want to burn the chocolate. If a skin forms on the surface of the milk, whisk to reincorporate and lower the heat a bit.
- 3
Cool for 5 to 10 minutes (it'll burn your mouth otherwise!). Whisk again and give it a taste. If desired, sweeten to taste with sugar or maple syrup.Add whipped cream, marshmallows, and shaved chocolate if desired. Enjoy!
- 4
Reheating instructions: Reheat in a saucepan on the stove over medium or medium-low, until warmed through.