The Ultimate Cosy Companion: 5 Hot Chocolate Recipes to Warm Your Soul (Vegan & Spiked Options Included!)
Curled up on the sofa on a chilly winter’s afternoon or the call of the firepit on a Summer’s evening, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm mug of hot chocolate.
It’s a classic treat that evokes feelings of nostalgia and cosiness. But why stick to the ordinary when you can elevate your hot chocolate experience?
In this blog post, I wanted to share with you 5 of the best hot chocolate recipes I’ve found, complete with vegan alternatives and delightful alcoholic twists.
Lorna Gilbert Ceramics
Lorna Gilbert Ceramics makes small batch, hand thrown white stoneware ceramics from her home studio in Leeds, West Yorkshire.
Her work can be seen in independent galleries and shops around the UK and in her online shop.
The inspiration behind her work is a love of the West coast of Scotland and the Yorkshire countryside.
Lorna creates pots to be used and enjoyed, a little piece of artistry to inspire and nurture your everyday.
Website – lornagilbert.co.uk
Instagram – lornagilbertceramics
1. The Classic Indulgence: Rich Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate
This recipe is the foundation of all great hot chocolates. It’s rich, decadent, and utterly satisfying.
* Ingredients:
* 2 cups milk (or your favourite vegan alternative, like oat or almond milk)
* 4 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
* 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
* 2 tablespoons sugar (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract * Pinch of salt
* Instructions:
* In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming, but not boiling.
* Add the chopped dark chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt.
* Whisk continuously until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
* Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows, whipped cream (or vegan whipped cream), or chocolate shavings.
* Vegan Option:
Simply substitute dairy milk with your preferred vegan milk and use maple syrup as a sweetener.
* Alcoholic Twist:
* Add 1-2 ounces of dark rum or chocolate liqueur to each mug for a warm, boozy kick.
2. The Spicy Sensation: Mexican Hot Chocolate – For those who crave a little heat, Mexican hot chocolate is the perfect choice.
* Ingredients:
* 2 cups milk (or vegan milk)
* 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped * 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground chili powder (or cayenne pepper)
* 1 tablespoon sugar (or agave nectar)
* Pinch of salt
* Instructions:
Follow the same heating and melting instructions as the classic recipe.
* Add the cinnamon, chili powder, sugar (or agave), and salt along with the chocolate.
* Whisk until smooth and frothy.
* Vegan Option: * Use vegan milk and agave nectar.
* Alcoholic Twist: * Add a splash of tequila or a cinnamon liqueur.
3. The Peppermint Perfection: Peppermint Hot Chocolate
A festive and refreshing twist on the classic.
* Ingredients:
* 2 cups milk (or vegan milk)
* 4 ounces white chocolate, chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
* Optional: crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
Follow the same heating and melting instructions as the classic recipe.
* add the peppermint extract when the chocolate is melted.
* Garnish with crushed candy canes.
Vegan Option:
Ensure to use vegan white chocolate, and a vegan milk.
Alcoholic Twist:
* Peppermint Schnapps, or a vanilla vodka are excellent additions.
4. The Nutty Delight: Hazelnut Hot Chocolate
For a rich and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
* 2 cups milk (or vegan milk)
* 4 ounces milk chocolate, chopped
* 2 tablespoons hazelnut spread (like Nutella, or a vegan hazelnut spread)
* Optional: chopped hazelnuts for garnish. * Instructions:
Follow the same heating and melting instructions as the classic recipe.
* Add the hazelnut spread along with the chocolate.
* Garnish with chopped hazelnuts.
Vegan Option:
* Ensure the hazelnut spread and milk are vegan.
Alcoholic Twist:
* Frangelico hazelnut liqueur is a perfect pairing.
5. The Coconut Cream Dream: Coconut Hot Chocolate
A tropical and creamy variation.
Ingredients:
* 1 can full-fat coconut milk
* 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
* 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup
* Optional: toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
* In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk over medium heat.
* Add the chopped dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and maple syrup.
* Whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
* Garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
Vegan Option:
This recipe is naturally vegan!
Alcoholic Twist:
* Coconut rum is a fantastic addition to this recipe.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Chocolate:
– Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the hot chocolate.
– Don’t boil the milk: Boiling can scald the milk and alter the flavor.
– Whisk continuously: This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
– Remember you can customize your toppings: Get creative with marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and more.
– Alcohol addition: Add alcohol after the hot chocolate is heated. Adding it before can cause some of the alcohol to evaporate.
Hot chocolate is a versatile and comforting beverage that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
Whether you prefer a classic, spicy, or nutty version, there’s a recipe for everyone. And with vegan and alcoholic options, you can customize your hot chocolate to suit your preferences.
So, grab your favourite mug, cosy up, and enjoy a warm and delicious treat!
Supporting Local Artisans: A Gift that Gives Back.
Do take a look at where you find a beautiful handmade mug for your hot chocolate – Here are where my ceramics are currently stocked.