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A white mug holding a heaping scoop of Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix powder with a spoon and marshmallows.

Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix

Craft your own rich and velvety dairy-free hot chocolate mix at home. This simple recipe yields a delicious blend perfect for cozy nights or thoughtful gifts, ensuring a warm, comforting beverage every time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Beverage, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Hot Chocolate Mix
  • 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder high-quality for best flavor, Dutch-processed is great
  • 2 cups granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option
  • 1 cup powdered sugar confectioners' sugar, helps with smooth dissolving
  • 1/2 cup dairy-free mini chocolate chips optional, but adds richness
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder, helps with thickening and anti-caking
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt enhances chocolate flavor
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla powder optional, for added depth
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon optional, for a hint of spice
To Prepare a Single Serving
  • 1/3 cup Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix
  • 1 cup dairy-free milk such as almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract optional, if not using vanilla powder in the mix

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • Airtight container or jar (for storage)
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Mix
  1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, cornstarch, fine sea salt, vanilla powder (if using), and ground cinnamon (if using). Sifting helps to break up any clumps and ensures a smooth mix.
  2. Add the dairy-free mini chocolate chips to the bowl. Whisk all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is evenly combined. Make sure there are no pockets of unmixed ingredients.
  3. Transfer the prepared Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix to a clean, airtight container or jar. Store in a cool, dry place.
To Make a Single Cup of Hot Chocolate
  1. Heat 1 cup of your preferred dairy-free milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk work well) in a small saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until hot but not boiling.
  2. Pour the hot milk into a mug. Add 1/3 cup of the Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix to the mug.
  3. Stir vigorously with a spoon or small whisk until the mix is completely dissolved and the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy. If desired, add 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  4. Serve immediately, garnished with dairy-free marshmallows, a swirl of dairy-free whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder, if desired.

Notes

This mix makes a wonderful homemade gift! You can package it in decorative jars with instructions for preparation. For an extra special touch, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for a Mexican-inspired hot chocolate. The mix will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3-4 months. Adjust sugar to your preference; you can use less if you prefer a less sweet drink.