Almond Milk Hot Chocolate Recipe

Oh my gosh, you guys, I just crafted the most epic almond milk hot chocolate ever, and it’s literally a hug in a mug! With just a few simple ingredients like cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a splash of vanilla, this creamy masterpiece will have you feeling all sorts of cozy vibes.

I enjoy making a delicious cup of hot chocolate with almond milk and cocoa powder. I use unsweetened almond milk, so the drink stays light, and I sweeten it only with a dash of maple syrup.

I add a little vanilla for warmth. Sometimes I top it with whipped coconut cream.

What could be better?

Almond Milk Hot Chocolate Recipe Ingredients

• Almond Milk: Low in calories and rich in vitamin E, almond milk contributes creaminess without dairy.
• Cocoa Powder: Packed with antioxidants, cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor and richness.
• Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener that enhances flavor, adding notes of caramel without refined sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses warmth and aroma, enhancing the overall taste and complexity.
• Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Almond Milk Hot Chocolate Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups almond milk (unsweetened)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Dairy-free chocolate chips or shavings (optional, for garnish)
• Whipped coconut cream (optional, for serving)

How to Make this Almond Milk Hot Chocolate Recipe

1. In a small saucepan, combine the following:
– almond milk
– cocoa powder
– maple syrup
– vanilla extract
– a pinch of salt

2. The ingredients should be mixed together with a whisk over medium heat until the cocoa powder is completely dissolved.

3. Proceed to heat the blend, agitating it often, until it is at a heated state but not reaching a roiling boil.

4. Sample the liquid chocolate and check the sweetness level; adjust as needed by incorporating additional maple syrup or honey to satisfying levels.

5. When you have heated it to your liking, take the pan off the heat.

6. Ladle the liquid chocolate into cups.

7. If desired, top with chocolate with no dairy, in the form of either chips or shavings, for extra richness.

8. Put on top a nice pile of whipped coconut cream to make it even creamier.

9. The most immediate serving guarantees the best flavor, warmth, and experience.

10. Relish in the splendid taste of your own handcrafted, superbly nutty, and delightfully sweet, Icy Almond Milk Hot Chocolate.

Almond Milk Hot Chocolate Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Small saucepan
2. Whisk
3. Ladle
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Cups for serving

FAQ

• Q: Can I use sweetened almond milk instead?A: Yes, sweetened almond milk is usable. Still, you might want to cut back on the maple syrup a bit. You don’t want your French toast to be cloyingly sweet, do you?
• Q: How can I make this hot chocolate creamier?The drink can be made creamier by adding a tablespoon of almond butter or by using a creamier nut milk, such as cashew milk.
• Q: Can I use a different sweetener other than maple syrup?Of course! Alternatives like honey or agave syrup are great, but adjust the amount to your taste.
• Q: Is there a way to make this sugar-free?A: You can replace the maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting the amount to your taste.
• Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?You are allowed to prepare it in advance and place it in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3 days. You are to warm it up on a stove set to low and not in a microwave before you pour it into bowls.
• Q: What can I use instead of cocoa powder?A: Good-quality dark chocolate that has been melted can serve as a substitute for cocoa powder. Approximate the amount you’d use for cocoa powder: 3-4 tablespoons should do well.
• Q: How do I make whipped coconut cream?1. Place a can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator to chill.
  2. Take out the solid cream that has separated and whipped it using a mixer until fluffy.
  3. If desired, sweeten it with a little powdered sugar or mix in some vanilla.

Almond Milk Hot Chocolate Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Almond milk: Replace it with any other nondairy milk such as oat milk or soy milk for a creamier texture.
Cacao powder: For a richer, less processed option, try cacao powder.
Agave syrup or coconut sugar: Two sweeteners that you can use in place of maple syrup.
Vanilla extract: For a nutty twist, use almond extract, but cut the quantity down to 1/2 teaspoon.
Coconut cream beaten until light and fluffy makes an excellent base for the kinds of creamy desserts I am partial to. But, as I mentioned when I introduced this delightful cloud of coconut cream, I have found myself in places and at times where I could not easily access coconut cream, or the fresh coconuts necessary to make it from scratch.

Pro Tips

1. Sift the Cocoa Powder Before adding the cocoa powder to the saucepan, sift it to eliminate any lumps. This ensures a smoother texture in the final drink.

2. Infuse with Spices For additional flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix while heating. These spices complement the chocolate and enhance the overall taste.

3. Use a Hand Frother After heating, use a hand frother or immersion blender to create a light foam on top of the hot chocolate. This adds a luxurious touch and a delightful texture.

4. Warm Your Cups Before serving, fill the cups with hot water to warm them up. Empty the water just before ladling in the hot chocolate, which helps maintain the drink’s warmth longer.

5. Garnish Creatively For a sophisticated presentation, sprinkle a small amount of sea salt over the whipped coconut cream before serving. This intensifies the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.