As the chilly days of December set in, a steaming mug of hot chocolate becomes the perfect comfort drink, especially for National Cocoa Day on 13th December. Hot chocolate recipes are easy to adapt, allowing for a range of unique flavours, textures, and even vegan options. In our home, we love experimenting with different vegan hot chocolate variations that are rich, creamy, and satisfying. Here are a few recipes that bring warmth and deliciousness to this special day.
1. Classic Vegan Hot Chocolate
A simple yet indulgent hot chocolate recipe using plant-based milk creates a rich, comforting drink. This version uses almond milk, but oat or soy milk work equally well, allowing you to adjust to your favourite texture.
Ingredients:
- 500ml almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 100g vegan dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave (optional)
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Warm the almond milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Add the dark chocolate and stir until fully melted.
- Sweeten with maple syrup if desired and add a pinch of sea salt to balance the flavours.
- Pour into mugs and enjoy immediately.
Steve, our daughter, and I all love this classic vegan hot chocolate for its smooth, creamy texture. It’s a simple yet comforting way to enjoy National Cocoa Day.
2. Coconut Vegan Hot Chocolate
Coconut milk creates a luxuriously creamy vegan hot chocolate with a hint of tropical flavour. This drink is easy to make, with just a few ingredients, and it’s naturally dairy-free.
Ingredients:
- 400ml coconut milk (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 50g vegan dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar or maple syrup (optional)
- Shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the coconut milk in a saucepan over low heat until it’s warm.
- Add the chopped chocolate, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth.
- Sweeten with coconut sugar or maple syrup to taste, then pour into mugs.
- Garnish with shredded coconut if desired.
This version is one of our family’s favourites, thanks to its smooth texture and subtle coconut flavour. It’s particularly popular for cosy nights when we want something different from traditional hot chocolate.
3. Peppermint Vegan Hot Chocolate
This peppermint-infused hot chocolate is the perfect drink for a festive twist on the classic, bringing a refreshing note to each sip. Using peppermint extract and dark chocolate makes it easy to keep it vegan.
Ingredients:
- 500ml oat milk (or preferred plant milk)
- 100g vegan dark chocolate, chopped
- 1–2 drops peppermint extract (a little goes a long way)
- Crushed peppermint candy for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Warm the oat milk in a saucepan, then add the chocolate and stir until smooth.
- Add one to two drops of peppermint extract, adjusting to taste.
- Pour into mugs and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy if desired.
The peppermint flavour makes this recipe a festive choice that our family enjoys throughout December. It’s a lovely treat that gives the classic hot chocolate a seasonal twist.
4. Mexican Spiced Vegan Hot Chocolate
Mexican hot chocolate, with its warming spices, is a unique and exciting variation. This vegan recipe is rich, spicy, and ideal for those chilly winter nights.
Ingredients:
- 500ml soy milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 100g vegan dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for a hint of spice)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat the soy milk in a saucepan over medium heat and add the cocoa powder, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt.
- Stir until well combined, then add the chocolate, allowing it to melt completely.
- Sweeten with maple syrup if desired, then pour into mugs and serve warm.
Steve and I love the combination of chocolate and spices in this recipe, while our daughter enjoys a milder version without the cayenne. It’s perfect for creating a cosy, warming drink that’s a bit out of the ordinary.
5. Hazelnut Vegan Hot Chocolate
Hazelnut milk gives this hot chocolate a nutty twist that makes it taste like a warm, drinkable version of everyone’s favourite hazelnut spread. This drink is smooth, rich, and completely plant-based.
Ingredients:
- 500ml hazelnut milk (or almond milk)
- 100g vegan dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tbsp hazelnut spread (vegan if available)
- Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions:
- Warm the hazelnut milk in a saucepan, then stir in the dark chocolate until fully melted.
- Add the hazelnut spread and mix until smooth and well-combined.
- Pour into mugs and top with chopped hazelnuts for extra flavour and texture.
This nutty twist on hot chocolate is one we turn to when we’re craving something a little extra special. Steve and I love the rich, slightly nutty flavour, while our daughter enjoys her own small cup without the added nuts.
Conclusion
Celebrating National Cocoa Day is a wonderful excuse to indulge in a variety of hot chocolate recipes that bring warmth and comfort to cold December days. From classic versions to unique vegan twists, these recipes offer something for everyone. In our home, hot chocolate is a seasonal ritual we all enjoy, with vegan versions allowing us to share the experience together. So, choose your favourite recipe, grab a cosy mug, and toast to National Cocoa Day with a delicious, homemade hot chocolate!
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