Description
A rich, creamy, and festive dairy-free hot cocoa made with full-fat coconut milk, dark chocolate, and peppermint extract. Ready in under 10 minutes, this vegan and gluten-free drink is naturally sweetened and perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (400ml) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened plant milk (oat or almond)
- 1 cup (170g) dairy-free dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for deeper flavor)
Instructions
- Combine the canned coconut milk, plant milk, dark chocolate, maple syrup, and optional cocoa powder in a small to medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk gently until the chocolate begins to melt and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
- Increase heat slightly to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally to prevent lumps. Do not let it boil vigorously.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat once the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is hot.
- Stir in the peppermint extract and salt until fully incorporated and the mixture is glossy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or strength by adding more maple syrup or plant milk if desired.
- Pour into mugs and serve immediately, garnished with crushed candy canes or whipped coconut cream if desired.
Notes
Do not boil the chocolate, as high heat can make it grainy. Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the best creamy texture; carton coconut milk is too watery. If using white chocolate, reduce maple syrup to 1 tablespoon as it is sweeter. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (approx. 16-20
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: dairy-free hot cocoa, vegan peppermint hot chocolate, gluten-free holiday drink, coconut milk hot cocoa, easy winter recipe, peppermint hot cocoa