The Most Delicious Vegan Hot Chocolate

It has got to that time of year. When it takes so much effort just to do anything. And all you really want is a big hug and to snuggle under a super cosy blanket. What better way, to warm up than with your favourite mug filled with the most delicious hot chocolate.

This recipe is so simple. It only requires a few key ingredients - cocoa and your choice of milk. But you can spice it up and make it as elaborate or as indulgent as you desire, or have the time for.

The best way to prepare this mug of goodness would be in an iron cast pan over a hot coal fired stove, but who actually owns one these days. For a faster method, just pop it in the microwave.

This is a family favourite after we get in after the school run, on a wet and dreary day and we all need a little boost and a tummy filler before dinner. As a mum, I'm always looking for treats that both children will be pleased with. My son is especially pleased with it, and is oblivious to the fact that it contains no dairy.

As this is a regular treat for us, I have a ready mixed tin of dried ingredients, just to make the process even faster. It is available from our online shop here.

Vegan Hot Chocolate

Yield: 2 large mugs

Ingredients

• 3 heaped tbsps (15g) of organic cocoa powder

• 50 g of your favourite vegan chocolate ( 50% cocoa content or higher) - chopped

• 2 tsps unrefined cane sugar (or alternative sweetener)

• 500ml of dairy free milk (we like to use KOKO)

• 1 tsps lucuma powder (optional)

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (or you could try ginger - optional)

For an extra treat you can add vegan marshmallows, chocolate shavings and a cinnamon stick stirrer.

Directions - Stove

1. Get all your ingredients together.

2. Measure out the cocoa powder, chopped chocolate, sweetener of choice and lucuma powder into a heavy based pan.

3. Pour over the milk and gently warm to a simmer stirring until all ingredients are combined.

4. Remove from the heat and let it cool for 1 minute.

5. Carefully pour into your favourite mug.

6. Decorate with marshmallows and chocolate shavings if using.

Directions - Microwave

1. Get all your ingredients together.

2. Measure out the cocoa powder, chopped chocolate, sweetener of choice and lucuma powder into a large mug.

3. Pour over a quarter of the milk and gently stir until ingredients are combined.

4. Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds.

5. Add the remaining milk and warm in the microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each one until you get a smooth and creamy texture. This may take up to 2 minutes depending on the strength of your microwave.

6. Remove from the heat and let it cool for 2 minutes.

7. Decorate with marshmallows and chocolate shavings if using.

Please let us know how you get on and how you like to drink yours.