Christmas Spiced Hot Cocoa (Lactose-Free)

A rich and decadent holiday beverage made with dark cocoa and creamy almond or coconut milk, infused with cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Naturally sweetened and dairy-free, it provides all the comfort of traditional hot chocolate with a sophisticated festive spice profile. It is the perfect, inclusive treat to enjoy by the fireplace on a cold winter night.

Prep 5 minCook 5 minTotal 10 minUpdated Jul 3, 202610 minVegetarianGluten Free

A rich and decadent holiday beverage made with dark cocoa and creamy almond or coconut milk, infused with cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Naturally sweetened and dairy-free, it provides all the comfort of traditional hot chocolate with a sophisticated festive spice profile. It is the perfect, inclusive treat to enjoy by the fireplace on a cold winter night.

Ingredients

  • 10 tbsp Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 360 ml Plant-based milk
  • 23 tbsp Maple syrup or sweetener
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon stick
  • 1 tbsp Star anise
  • 3 tsp Cloves
  • 2.5 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp Cocoa powder or ground cinnamon
  • 10 cup Mini marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Put a cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves into a small saucepan
  2. Pour in plant-based milk and heat over medium-low heat
  3. Keep heating without boiling for a while
  4. Turn off the heat, remove the spices, add unsweetened cocoa powder and maple syrup or a sugar substitute, and stir until fully dissolved with no lumps
  5. Add vanilla extract
  6. Warm gently over low heat briefly until it reaches a comfortable temperature
  7. Pour into a cup, dust with cocoa powder or ground cinnamon, and add mini marshmallows

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Storage

Store safely

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within a few days when appropriate for the ingredients.

Meal prep

Plan portions

Pre-portion this recipe so calories and macros are easier to track in CALRI during the week.

Tracking

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