Get ready for the easiest, yummiest Paleo Hot Chocolate ever! With only 1 minute of prep and 10 minutes on the stove, you’ll whip up a dairy-free hot chocolate mix that’s rich and chocolatey, Italian-style. This homemade paleo cocoa is perfect for quick, cozy moments and is sure to be a hit with everyone!

Feature image shows paleo hot chocolate served in a white mug with cocoa dusting in almond milk.
Rich, creamy, and chocolatey hot chocolate with dairy-fee milk and easy to make!

Ingredients

Ready to make the yummiest keto hot chocolate? Let’s check out the simple ingredients we’ll need. Each one is super tasty and perfect for a healthy hot cocoa mix. Here’s what goes into making this cozy drink:

Photo shows ingredients used to make healthy dairy-free hot chocolate drink.
  • Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Bars or Semi-Sweet Chocolate: The heart of any hot chocolate, dark chocolate adds a rich, deep flavor and antioxidants. Semi-sweet chocolate brings a balance of sweetness and cocoa flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Milk (Soy, Almond, Cashew, Hemp, or Oat): These milk alternatives are great for those following a Paleo diet or with dairy sensitivities. Each brings its unique flavor and creaminess.
  • Coconut Cream: Adds a luxurious, creamy texture and a hint of tropical sweetness to the hot chocolate, making it indulgently thick.
  • Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Powder: Vanilla adds a subtle, aromatic sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the hot chocolate without overpowering it.
  • Himalayan Pink Salt or Coarse Sea Salt: Salt is a magical ingredient that intensifies and balances the chocolate’s richness, creating a fuller, rounder flavor.
  • Sweetener of Choice (Maple Syrup, Honey, Coconut Brown Sugar, Agave, Date Syrup, or Keto Brown Sugar): These natural sweeteners are healthier alternatives to refined sugar, each adding its own unique flavor and sweetness level.

Toppings and Garnishes:

  • Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Dairy-Free Coffee Creamer: Either option adds a creamy, velvety texture to the top of your hot chocolate, enhancing its richness.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder or Cacao powder: A sprinkle of cacao or cocoa powder on top adds a touch of elegance and an extra chocolatey hit with each sip.
  • Mint Leaves: Mint provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the chocolate, adding a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Can also use a tiny drop of peppermint extract.

Substitutions and variations

Other Topping ideas:

  • Mini Marshmallows: A classic hot chocolate topping that adds a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a fun, playful touch.
  • Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free alternative to traditional whipped cream, it adds a light, creamy texture with a subtle coconut flavor.
  • A Sprinkle of Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that complements the chocolate, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.

Different Sweeteners:

  • Honey: A natural sweetener with floral notes, honey adds a rich, smooth sweetness.
  • Agave: A vegan-friendly option that’s less viscous than honey, agave has a mild, neutral sweetness.
  • Coconut Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness with a hint of coconut flavor, making it a unique choice.
  • Keto Brown Sugar: A great option for those following a keto diet, it mimics the taste of traditional brown sugar without the carbs.
  • Date Syrup: Another natural sweetener, it offers a rich, deep flavor similar to molasses.

Best Substitute For Milk in Hot Chocolate:

  • Almond Milk hot chocolate: Light with a hint of nuttiness, it doesn’t overpower the chocolate flavor.
  • Soy Milk: Creamier than almond milk hot chocolate, it adds a smooth texture.
  • Cashew Milk: Thick and rich, it makes for a creamier hot chocolate.
  • Hemp Milk: Offers a slightly earthy taste and thin consistency.
  • Oat Milk: Its natural sweetness and creaminess make it a popular choice for hot chocolate.

TIP: If you prefer using cocoa powder or cacao powder, please see the section below on how to modify the recipe.

How to make paleo hot chocolate

Making this healthy cocoa mix is super easy and fun. It’s naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, and low carb. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, warm drink in no time. Let’s get started!

  1. Break up the chocolate bars and add them to a medium-sized pot along with your choice of milk, coconut milk cream, and vanilla.
  2. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 7-10 minutes, stirring often until the chocolate melts completely and is smooth.
  3. Add a pinch of salt and sweeten to taste. Continue stirring until you reach your desired consistency.

Cacao Powder vs. Cocoa Powder in Hot Chocolate

Wondering about using raw cacao powder or cocoa powder instead of chocolate bars in your hot cocoa? Here’s a quick guide:

  • Cacao Powder is less processed and retains more nutrients and antioxidants. It’s more bitter than cocoa powder but adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
  • Cocoa Powder is more processed and has a milder, sweeter flavor. It’s the more common choice for traditional hot chocolate.

How to make hot cocoa from cacao powder

If you want to use either cacao powder or cocoa powder instead of chocolate bars, here’s what to do:

  1. Measure: Use about 2 to 3 tablespoons of either cacao powder or cocoa powder as a substitute for the chocolate bars.
  2. Mix with a Little Hot Water: To avoid clumps, mix the powder with a small amount of hot water to create a paste before adding it to your milk with the vanilla and pinch of salt.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: Since powders don’t have the added sugar that chocolate bars do, you might need a little more sweetener. Taste and adjust accordingly.
  4. Simmer and Whisk: Follow the rest of the recipe as is, remembering to whisk continuously for a smooth cacao powder drink texture.

How to store and reheat

Enjoying these cacao drinks couldn’t be simpler, and there’s hardly ever a need to make it ahead. But if you find yourself with some extra, here’s how to store and reheat it so every cup is as delicious as the first.

  • Storage: Pop any leftover hot chocolate into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It’ll stay good for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: When you’re ready for more, just pour the hot chocolate into a small saucepan and heat it on the stove over medium heat. Don’t worry if it looks a bit separated after being in the fridge – a quick whisk while heating will bring it all back together, nice and smooth!

What to serve with paleo hot cocoa

What’s better than cozying up with a warm mug of Paleo hot chocolate mix? Pairing it with the perfect cookie, of course! Whether you’re in the mood for something nutty, fruity, or just plain festive, these cookie recipes are the perfect companions to your hot cocoa and almond milk hot chocolate. Try them out for a match made in snack heaven!

Perfect Pairings for Paleo Hot Cocoa:

Expert tips

  • Quality of Chocolate: The flavor of your hot chocolate heavily depends on the chocolate you use. Opt for high-quality chocolate bars for a richer taste.
  • Continuous Stirring: Keep whisking often as your hot chocolate simmers. This ensures all the ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a smooth, harmonious blend.
  • Low-Heat Simmering: A slow simmer is key. It gently melts the chocolate and integrates the flavors without scorching the milk.
  • Thickness Adjustment: If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add a bit more milk or hot water. For a thicker, creamier texture, simmer a little longer.
  • Sweetener Experimentation: Play around with different sweeteners to find your preferred level of sweetness. Each brings a unique flavor profile to your hot chocolate.
  • Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to let the hot chocolate boil. Overheating can alter the texture and taste.
  • Serve Immediately: dairy-free healthy hot Chocolate is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. This way, you capture all the warmth and richness in each cup.

FAQs

Is unsweetened cacao powder paleo?

Yes, unsweetened cacao powder is paleo-friendly and a great choice for healthy recipes.

What can you substitute for hot chocolate?

Try alternatives like herbal teas, warm spiced almond milk hot chocolate, black sesame latte, or Whole30 turmeric milk.

Does sugar free hot chocolate exist?

Absolutely! Use natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for a sugar-free option.

What’s the difference between cacao and hot chocolate?

Cacao is the raw form of chocolate, while hot chocolate typically includes sweeteners and milk.

More dairy-free hot drinks you might like

If you loved our dairy free hot Chocolate recipe and are on the hunt for more dairy-free delights, you’re in for a treat! We’ve got some more cozy, dairy-free drink recipes that are just as comforting and delicious. Check out these must-try beverages for your next warm and cozy moment:

  • Black Sesame Latte: Made with 2-ingredient black sesame paste, it’s a caffeine-free option that offers a creamy, frothy texture, perfect for those looking for a soothing, yet distinctive, hot drink.
  • Whole30 Turmeric Milk: Dive into the spicy, aromatic world of turmeric with this Whole30-compliant drink. It’s not just tasty but also packed with health benefits, making it a perfect choice for a healthful, warming beverage.
Paleo Hot Chocolate with dairy-free almond or coconut milk is healthy, low carb, and easy to make!
Paleo Hot Chocolate with dairy-free almond or coconut milk is healthy, low carb, and easy to make!
5 from 32 votes

Paleo hot chocolate recipe

Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 11 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Author: ChihYu Smith
Paleo Hot Chocolate with dairy-free milk is a creamy and rich cacao drink. Easy to make with almond milk, and cocoa powder, and healthy!
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Ingredients 

  • 1.5 to 2 oz unsweetened dark chocolate bars, or semi-sweet chocolate
  • 1 cup dairy-free milk of your choice, soy milk, almond milk, cashew, hemp, or oat milk.
  • 3 tbsp coconut milk cream
  • tsp vanilla extract, or vanilla powder
  • Pinch Himalayan pink salt, or coarse sea salt
  • To taste sweetener of your choice, maple syrup, honey, coconut brown sugar, agave, date syrup, or keto brown sugar

Topping and garnish ideas:

Instructions 

  • Break up the chocolate bars and add them to a medium-sized pot with milk, coconut milk cream, and vanilla. Simmer over medium-low heat for about 7-10 minutes, stirring often with a wooden spoon until the chocolate is completely melted and with no clumps.
  • Add a pinch of salt and sweeten the cocoa drink to taste. Keep stirring and simmering until your desired consistency. The drink will be thick, creamy, and rich like Italian style. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a few tablespoon of hot water.
  • To serve, pour the hot cocoa with almond milk into the serving mugs and dust with cacao powder and stir-in a few tablespoons of coconut milk or creamer. Garnish with 1-2 mint leaves per cup. Serve hot or warm.

Notes

  1. This recipe makes 2 generous servings. For a smaller serving in espresso cups, it’ll be good for 4 servings.
  • If using cacao or cocoa powder, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
  1. Measure: Use about 2 to 3 tablespoons of either cacao powder or cocoa powder as a substitute for the chocolate bars.
  2. Mix with a Little Hot Water: To avoid clumps, mix the powder with a small amount of hot water to create a paste before adding it to your milk with the vanilla and pinch of salt.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: Since powders don’t have the added sugar that chocolate bars do, you might need a little more sweetener. Taste and adjust accordingly.
  4. Simmer and Whisk: Follow the rest of the recipe as is, remembering to whisk continuously for a smooth texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 205kcal, Carbohydrates: 12g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 18g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 4g, Sodium: 165mg, Potassium: 73mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 7g, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 153mg, Iron: 1mg
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Almond Milk Hot Chocolate, Healthy Hot Chocolate, Paleo Hot Chocolate
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