Vegan spiced hot cocoa combines plant-based milk, cocoa, turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger for a warm drink with an earthy, gently spicy flavor. Maple syrup lets you adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk, or another plant-based milk
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1–2 tsp maple syrup, to taste
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of cayenne pepper, optional
Directions
- Pour the plant-based milk into a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3–4 minutes. Avoid boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Break up any cocoa lumps with the whisk.
- Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla. Taste carefully and adjust the sweetness.
- Reduce the heat to low and gently simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour into a mug and let it cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving.
Adjust the flavor
Turmeric gives this drink a pronounced earthy flavor. Start with less if you prefer a milder cup. Leave out the cayenne for less heat, or whisk in an extra small spoonful of cocoa for a stronger chocolate flavor. A milk frother can give the finished drink a foamy top.
Milk and allergen choices
Oat, soy, coconut, or almond milk each changes the flavor and texture. Check the label for allergens and any dietary requirements. If you need a gluten-free drink, choose ingredients labeled accordingly, including the plant-based milk and any toppings.
Make ahead and storage
Refrigerate leftovers promptly in a covered container and use within two days. Reheat gently, stirring to combine any settled cocoa and spices. Follow any shorter storage instructions on your milk’s packaging.
Common questions
Can I leave out maple syrup?
Yes. Omit it for an unsweetened drink, or add your preferred sweetener to taste.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes. Chill it in the refrigerator, stir well, and serve over ice if you like.
How can I make it creamier?
Use a richer plant-based milk, such as canned coconut milk diluted to your preferred consistency. This will also change the flavor.
Does this cocoa treat inflammation or boost immunity?
This is a drink recipe, not a treatment. An earlier version made health claims about the finished drink that were not supported by evidence specific to this recipe. Those claims have been removed. Enjoy it for its chocolate and spice flavors.
Serving idea
Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon or a spoonful of dairy-free whipped topping. Serve alongside your favorite dessert for a cozy afternoon break.
