1tablespooncocoa powdercan use cacao powder ($0.05)
1tablespoonsugarcan use brown sugar, coconut sugar, or cane sugar ($0.01)
1tablespoonmaple syrupcan use another liquid sweetener ($0.26)
8-12ounceshot water
3tablespoonsfull-fat milkoptional, 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:
Peanut butter hot chocolate: Add 1 tablespoon of natural, runny peanut butter to the mug along with the cocoa powder, sugar, and maple syrup. Mix together into a paste before adding the liquid. This will ensure it does not clump up in the bottom.
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!