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–+ servings
Two white mugs of cocoa by marshmallows.

How to Make Hot Chocolate with Cocoa Powder with Water

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 hot chocolate
Author: Nicolette Wax
Cost: $0.37 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder can use cacao powder ($0.05)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar can use brown sugar, coconut sugar, or cane sugar ($0.01)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup can use another liquid sweetener ($0.26)
  • 8-12 ounces hot water
  • 3 tablespoons full-fat milk optional, I used coconut milk ($0.05)

Instructions

  • Into your favorite mug, add 1 tablespoon each of cocoa powder, sugar, and maple syrup. Mix to combine, forming a paste.
  • Optional: Add 3 tablespoons full-fat milk for a creamy hot chocolate.
  • Slowly mix in 8-12 ounces hot water. Stir to combine. Taste and add additional maple syrup to taste.
  • Top with favorite hot chocolate toppings and enjoy immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Make sure to add the cacao powder before the water to prevent the cacao from clumping up. 
  • I love using an electric kettle to heat the water. Very easy. 
ADD-INS & TOPPING IDEAS: 
Download 5 More Cheap Hot Chocolate Recipe Ideas You Can Make with Cocoa Powder and Water!
  • Marshmallows: In order to make this hot chocolate with cocoa powder vegan and vegetarian (gelatin is not vegetarian!), I used vegan mini marshmallows with a bit of peppermint flavor! You can substitute your family's favorite marshmallows, or try my Homemade Vegan Marshmallows that actually melt!!
  • Candy canes: A candy cane will not only help you stir your hot chocolate as you drink, but will give your drink a nice peppermint hot chocolate flavor! You could even add a drop or two of edible peppermint oil for even stronger peppermint hot chocolate.
  • Whipped cream: I used coconut whipped cream, but your family's favorite will do! I've also used soy whipped cream or oat milk whipped cream. Luckily there are many dairy free whipped creams available in stores these days.
  • Chocolate chips: If you are looking for a hot chocolate recipe made with cocoa powder, you may not have chocolate chips on hand. But in the event you do, melting a tablespoon of chocolate chips into your mug can make your hot chocolate even richer and a bit sweeter!
  • Vanilla extract: If you love the taste of vanilla, add 1/2 teaspoon into the mug!

Nutrition

Calories: 106kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 27mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g