Did you know you can still enjoy a delicious cup of creamy, satisfying hot cocoa even as you navigate a dairy-free lifestyle?
That's right—dairy-free hot chocolate mix is a game-changer for those who adhere to a no-dairy diet, and we're here to bring you a list of the best dairy-free hot cocoa options so you can stop searching and start sipping.
Read on to learn more about the best dairy-free hot cocoa mixes and how you can put your own spin on these to make for a uniquely delicious treat.
Key takeaways:
- Hot cocoa can still be enjoyed on a dairy-free diet by using dairy-free mixes
- Hot cocoa can be made dairy-free with the use of coconut milk, almond milk, cashew milk, and other non-dairy milk alternatives
- Dairy-free flavor add-ons include dairy-free whipped cream, coconut cream, vegan marshmallows, coconut sugar, and more
- The best hot chocolate mix is a matter of personal preference
See Related: L-Theanine: Unlocking the Secrets to Relaxation & Sleep
Does hot cocoa have dairy?
Yes, hot cocoa traditionally contains dairy, but not always.
Hot chocolate is made from cocoa powder, which is derived from cocoa beans. Cocoa powder itself is dairy-free, but it's often combined with milk or milk-based ingredients. But this doesn't mean that hot cocoa mix is completely off the table for vegans or dairy-free individuals.
Although hot chocolate is not inherently dairy-free, there are many dairy-free hot cocoa mix options that fit well within a non-dairy lifestyle. Whether made with cocoa powder or dark chocolate, sugar, or stevia, you have endless options when it comes to hot cocoa recipes.
So, if you are on the hunt for the perfect non-dairy hot cocoa recipe, don't be afraid to do a little experimenting to find the best combination for you.
How can hot cocoa be vegan?
Hot chocolate can be vegan as long as it doesn't contain dairy milk or other dairy ingredients.
To make a dairy-free hot chocolate that is creamy and rich, all you'll need is a non-dairy milk, a dairy-free hot cocoa mix or chocolate chips, and your choice of non-dairy toppings. It's really that simple!
Dairy-free alternatives
Whether you are adhering to a dairy-free or vegan diet or are one of the millions who are lactose intolerant, which means you have an aversion to milk products, you may have come across dairy-free milk options at the grocery store.
While you can certainly use water to make your hot chocolate, there are various dairy-free alternatives that can be used to create a truly great hot cocoa recipe.
Some of these dairy alternative, plant-based milks include:
- Almond
- Coconut
- Cashew
- Soy
- Oat
- Rice milk
While all of them are dairy-free, each of these carries its own unique taste and texture.
Dairy-free milk pairings
How your hot chocolate tastes will depend largely on what type of ingredients you use. If you are craving a lighter hot chocolate, opt for a low-calorie almond milk. If you prefer a creamy texture for your hot chocolate, opt for oat, cashew milk, or even a vegan cream or milk powder.
To create a hot cocoa recipe that is more decadent and feels more like a dessert, you might choose coconut milk. The canned variety can be even richer and more flavorful.Â
Adding just a splash of coconut cream to your hot chocolate can make a world of difference when it comes to flavor. And, if you are out of coconut milk altogether, consider coconut milk powder. This alternative can add sweetness and richness that is almost impossible to resist.
Take care to consider how much sugar you are consuming when making your hot chocolate. If the dairy-free milk ingredients you are using already contain sugar or an alternative sweetener, you will need to adjust the amount of added sweetener accordingly.Â
And, always pay close attention to ingredients when dealing with food allergies. If you are sensitive to dairy alternative milk, opt to add hot water to your cocoa mix to do the trick. If you are allergic to soy, opt for a soy-free alternative.
By using one of these dairy-free milks along with other ingredients like vegan hot chocolate mix or chopped dark chocolate bars, you can craft a mug of creamy vegan hot chocolate that soothes your soul as well as your taste buds. You can even combine some of these ingredients to create your own recipe, such as oat and canned coconut milk.
Sweeteners and flavorings
You can't go wrong with a steaming mug of hot chocolate when you're craving the ultimate comfort drink. But if you're hoping to kick it up a notch, there are endless flavor variations to experiment with to help you elevate your hot cocoa even further.
From traditional sweetened syrups like hazelnut and cinnamon to more unique, gourmet flavors like banana, coconut, orange, and mint, consider flavor add-ons to keep your daily hot chocolate interesting.
Sugar-free flavorings
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to load up on added sugar to make the perfect hot chocolate. The best recipe for hot chocolate is one that balances sweetness, texture, creaminess, and temperature.
If you are currently cutting back on your sugar intake, you can incorporate sweetened sugar-free syrups or other sugar-free sweeteners into your hot cocoa recipes. These include sugar-free vanilla syrup, sugar-free cinnamon syrup, coconut sugar, stevia, and other options. Using these will help minimize added calories while still retaining a delectable flavor.
By using sugar-free syrups, you can also reduce your chances of a blood sugar spike. There is also sugar-free, dairy-free cream you can use to add an extra dose of sweetness to your cocoa recipe.
Beyond sugar-free flavorings, gluten-free varieties of hot cocoa mix are available if you are dealing with a gluten allergy but still want to enjoy a mug of hot cocoa.
And, did you know that salt can improve how hot cocoa tastes, too? Simple ingredients like Himalayan salt are known to bring out the full flavor of chocolate by balancing out its sweetness. This allows you to experience a completely different flavor profile. All it takes is a small pinch to reap the benefits.
Other interesting flavor enhancers for hot chocolate include sweet ground chocolate and even coffee and espresso! By adding coffee or espresso into your hot chocolate, you can turn it into a caffeinated beverage that is perfect for getting you through the day.
When it comes to sprucing up your hot chocolate recipe, the options are truly endless!
Bonus: Is Hot Cocoa Vegan?
Vegan and dairy-free hot chocolate mixes
While there are dozens of delicious hot cocoa mixes on the market, the perfect vegan hot chocolate mix really comes down to a matter of your personal preference. Although many hot chocolate lovers might agree that the best cup of hot chocolate recipe is three things: sweet, creamy, and rich.
Some prefer using hot water to make their hot chocolate, while others wouldn't dream of using anything other than full-fat milk for their favorite recipe. Some may enjoy an intense dark chocolate flavor while others prefer a sweeter taste. No matter your preference, there is a hot chocolate mix to suit your needs.
Our favorite hot cocoa mixes include:
Mindful Nutrition Grandma's Hot Cocoa
Mindful Nutrition’s Grandma’s Cocoa Mix contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making it a fantastic option for those adhering to a natural, non-dairy or vegan diet. At only 70 calories per serving, this cocoa mix is diet-friendly and offers several health benefits. This mix contains organic cocoa flavanols that help support cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and blood pressure, and it fights inflammation known to damage tissues and cells.Â
It also contains less than half the sugar found in other brands of hot chocolate.Â
Did you know this cocoa mix can be used to make food, too? From perfectly sweetened cakes to cookies, brownies, and more, food can be made even better with the addition of Grandma’s Cocoa Mix. Consider experimenting with different pairings for this hot cocoa mix, and enjoy the results alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate while you're at it!
The most difficult part of using Grandma's Hot Cocoa is deciding which type to use. This delicious mix also comes in Pumpkin Spice and Peppermint varieties, which are enjoyable all year round.
Consider adding vegan marshmallows and a sugar-free sweetener to your cup of hot chocolate to make it ultra-rich, sweet, and creamy.
Mindful Nutrition Mindful Hot Cocoa
Your hot chocolate can do more than satisfy your palate. Some mixes, like Mindful Nutrition's Mindful Hot Cocoa, can also help induce calm and relaxation. Made with ingredients like GABA and L-theanine, this mix is made from organic cocoa and carries benefits for both the body and mind.
Whether you are feeling anxious, restless, or are just in the mood for a hot chocolate recipe that tastes great, Mindful Hot Cocoa is a solid choice. Your health is important, and adding a healthy treat to your daily routine is beneficial in more ways than one.
Mindful Kids Nutrition Cocoa
Mindful Nutrition hot cocoa isn't just for adults. In fact, kids will love Mindful Kids Nutrition Cocoa, which is crafted just for them. This sweetened mix gets its flavor from organic cane sugar and organic stevia, making it sweet but not too sweet for the little ones.
Packed with 14 essential vitamins and minerals, 11 organic superfoods, and 8 grams of quality protein, this cocoa helps kids receive vital nutrients to help support bone health, muscle growth, and boost their immune system. Many of Mindful Nutrition's hot cocoa recipes are vegan and gluten-free to accommodate all kinds of dietary restrictions.
What’s more — this cocoa mix can be consumed hot or cold! So, whether it's hot or cold outside, sunny or rainy, kids will love this tasty, good-for-you cocoa mix.
Crafting the perfect vegan hot cocoa
Now, it's time to prepare a delicious mug of hot cocoa.
First, gather your ingredients. You'll need the following to craft an amazing cup of hot cocoa:
- 1 cup of dairy-free milk (coconut milk or other non-dairy alternative) or 1 cup of hot water
- Hot cocoa mix (like Mindful Nutrition's sugar-free, vegan hot cocoa mix)
- Sugar or sugar-free sweetener
- Vanilla
- Marshmallows or vegan whipped cream
Directions:
To make hot cocoa using cocoa mix, like this dairy-free and vegan organic hot cocoa mix, heat 2 cups of dairy-free milk in a medium saucepan over a medium heat.
Stir in hot cocoa mix and let simmer. Take care to avoid boiling as you heat.
Once the dairy-free milk or hot water reaches your desired temperature, pour the liquid into a mug and add a tbsp of sugar (or coconut sugar) and a pinch of salt. Top with marshmallows and/or whipped cream and stir until the texture becomes thick, rich, and creamy. Pair with a comfort food like shortbread cookies or a scone to create an indulgent treat you can turn to for rest and relaxation.
Conclusion
Whether you're hoping to wind down after a long day or start a new one with this creamy beverage, hot cocoa has a way of elevating the mood any time of day.
When it comes to whipping up the perfect mug of hot cocoa, factors like which milk and hot cocoa mix you use can make all the difference in how it tastes.
And remember, dairy-free hot chocolate doesn't have to be boring. There are plenty of vegan recipes you can enjoy on a dairy-free lifestyle. From coconut milk powder to dairy-free mixes, don't be afraid to experiment with unique flavor combinations to make a hot chocolate recipe that is out of this world.Â
Keep Reading: How to Heat Milk For Hot Chocolate: 4 Ways
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Mindful Nutrition is a veteran-owned company with a passion for health and mental wellness. We use natural ingredients to support both body and mind, including melatonin, GABA, ashwagandha, and L-Theanine. Our hot cocoa blends are vegan, non-GMO, and plant-based, designed to promote relaxation, calmness, and better sleep. We utilize third-party testing on all products to ensure purity, quality, and safety. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
