Hot chocolate is one of those timeless comforts, and this version keeps everything simple, cozy, and plant-powered. Using Plant Strong unsweetened almond milk (or your plant milk of choice) as the base, this recipe delivers a rich chocolate flavor without being overly sweet or heavy. It’s an easy one-pot recipe that’s perfect for the season.
The aquafaba whipped cream adds a fun, elevated twist. Made from the liquid in canned chickpeas and lightly sweetened with date sugar, it whips up into a surprisingly fluffy topping that feels indulgent while still using real, whole-food ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a comforting drink or a plant-powered treat to serve guests, this hot chocolate is warm, nostalgic, and endlessly cozy.
Healthy Hot Chocolate
PLANTSTRONG Team
Rated 3.7 stars by 10 users
Category
Drinks
This creamy, dairy-free hot chocolate is made with our unsweetened almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla for a perfectly balanced, rich flavor. Naturally sweetened and easy to make on the stovetop, it serves three and comes together in minutes. Top it off with fluffy aquafaba whipped cream for a light, plant-powered finish that makes this cozy drink feel extra special.
4 tbsp date sugar (you can adjust more or less depending on sweetness preference)
Directions
For the hot chocolate
Add the Plant Strong Almond Milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt to a saucepan and bring to a simmer.
Cool, serve into portions, and top with whipped cream.
To make Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Add 1–2 drops of peppermint extract to the hot chocolate mixture. Finish with whipped cream, chocolate flakes, and peppermint leaves.
To make Spiced Hot Chocolate: Mix cinnamon and a little all spice or nutmeg into the hot chocolate mixture. Top with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, and a dusting of cinnamon. For more of a Mexican-style Hot Chocolate, add a dash of cayenne.
For the Aquafaba Whipped Cream
Using a hand mixer, beat the and date sugar for about 10 minutes until light and fluffy.
Serve on top of the hot chocolate or another recipe of your choice!
