Vegan Hot Chocolate

With Easter just around the corner and our new Vegan Hot Chocolate Blend launching, we thought it was the perfect time to share some of our favourite vegan hot chocolate recipes. 

From a classic Mocha to a spicier Mexican hot chocolate, these dairy-free treats are perfect for gathering with friends, family, or just yourself. So, grab your favourite mug, and let's hop into the world of vegan hot chocolate!

Let’s talk cacao

Our own hot chocolate blend is made using brut cocoa (aka raw cacao). Unlike what you’ll find with processed cacao, using the bean raw can boost brain function, lower inflammation, and even improve cardiovascular health.

On top of that, our blend is formulated with the highest quality Peruvian maca root (great for energy and mood) as well as cinnamon (which lowers blood sugar and inflammation) and a touch of cane sugar. 

Mocha hot chocolate

A modern fusion of two historic drinks, a Mocha Hot Chocolate combines the rich and creamy flavors of hot chocolate with the bold and robust taste of coffee. The outcome is a warming, invigorating, and creamy drink perfect for helping you start your day.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1/2 cup brewed coffee or espresso
• 3 tablespoons of BATW Hot Chocolate Mix
• 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and brewed coffee over medium-low heat until it is warm but not boiling. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid scorching.
2. While the milk is warming, in a small bowl, mix the hot chocolate powder and a few tablespoons of the warm milk, stirring until smooth. This step helps to prevent clumping when you add the cocoa to the saucepan.
3. Once the milk is warm, pour the cocoa paste into the saucepan, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan, whisking to combine. Continue to heat the mixture for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug.
6. Optional: Top with vegan whipped cream or vegan marshmallows, and enjoy your classic vegan hot chocolate!

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Mexican cuisine is known for its spicy and bold flavors, and their version of hot chocolate is no exception. A traditional centuries-old Mexican hot chocolate with a modern touch, this drink is warm, fiery, and with subtle heat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 100 g vegan dark chocolate, roughly chopped
• 2-3 tablespoons agave syrup or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid scorching.
2. Once the mixture is warm, add the chopped vegan dark chocolate to the saucepan. Continue to heat, whisking constantly, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add your sweetener of choice and vanilla extract, whisking to combine. Keep heating for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature.
4. Carefully pour the Mexican hot chocolate into your favorite mug and top with vegan whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a pinch of chili powder!

Chai Hot Chocolate

This is a warm and comforting beverage that combines the spicy flavors of chai (Indian tea) with the rich and earthy taste of chocolate. It's a cozy and indulgent drink that's perfect as a special treat during any time of year.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of plant-based milk
• 1 chai tea bag
• 2 tablespoons of BATW Hot Chocolate Mix
• 2 tablespoons of sweetener of choice
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Remove the pan from heat and add the chai tea bag. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your chai flavor.
3. Remove the tea bag and return the pan to the heat.
4. Add hot chocolate powder, sweetener, and cinnamon to the pan and whisk everything together until everything is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
5. Continue to heat until it reaches your desired temperature.
6. Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top it with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for garnish, if desired.

More ways to customize your hot chocolate 

Hot chocolate is a classic comfort drink that can be enjoyed in many different ways. If you're vegan or dairy-free, customizing it to make it your own is one of the best ways to add depth.

Start by trying out flavored syrups, like vanilla or hazelnut. These syrups can be found in most grocery stores, and just a splash can take your hot chocolate to the next level. If you’re more into stronger flavors adding a shot of espresso or some brewed coffee can also give your next hot cocoa an unexpected dimension.

No matter how you choose to make it, however, a hot chocolate will always be a comforting and welcoming beverage perfect for any time of day - or year!