How to Make Delicious and Healthy Hot Chocolate in Minutes
Hot chocolate is one of my favorite cold weather treats, so having a healthy hot chocolate recipe is a must! This recipe has all the delicious, decadent chocolate but includes collagen and nutrients to balance out the sweetness.
There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of hot chocolate on a chilly day—but what if your favorite cozy treat could also be good for you?
This healthy hot chocolate recipe combines rich, decadent flavor with nourishing, wholesome ingredients that go beyond your average cup of cocoa. Made with creamy grass-fed milk, a surprising boost of nutrients from bone broth, and zero artificial fillers or preservatives, it’s a delicious way to indulge!
Whether you’re looking for a clean comfort drink or a family-friendly treat, this recipe will warm you up from the inside out—naturally. Pair it with some freshly made bread, sourdough pumpkin bread, or a high-protein banana bread for a wonderful afternoon pick me up.
And if you want an even easier way to make it, check out this homemade cocoa mix! Simply add the powder to milk and bone broth and go.
What is Healthy Hot Chocolate?
Healthy hot chocolate is the perfect combination of indulgence and wellness, transforming a classic comfort drink into a nutritious treat.
Unlike traditional hot chocolate, which often relies on processed ingredients and loads of sugar, this version is thoughtfully crafted with wholesome ingredients that boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
This upgraded recipe starts with full-fat, grass-fed milk (or raw milk!), offering a rich and creamy base that’s naturally packed with nutrients. Grass-fed milk is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
The addition of bone broth might sound unconventional, but it’s a game-changer. This powerhouse ingredient provides collagen and amino acids, which support joint health, skin elasticity, and gut health. It also adds a small but meaningful dose of protein, helping to balance the macronutrients in this drink and keep you satisfied longer.
Finally, this recipe prioritizes purity by using only from-scratch ingredients. Unlike many store-bought mixes that contain fillers, preservatives, and cellulose (an additive often used to prevent caking), this healthy hot chocolate is free from artificial additives.
The result is a clean, velvety beverage that warms you up while nourishing your body.
What Makes This Recipe Healthy?
This healthy hot chocolate recipe is not just delicious but also packed with nourishing ingredients. Here’s what makes it a better choice:
- Full-Fat Grass-Fed or Raw Milk:
- Provides a creamy, nutrient-dense base.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) to support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Organic and grass-fed ensures no added antibiotics or hormones.
- Bone Broth:
- Adds collagen and amino acids for skin, joint, and gut health.
- Includes a small boost of protein to balance macronutrients and keep you satiated.
- Subtle flavor enhances the richness of the hot chocolate.
- From-Scratch Ingredients:
- Free from preservatives, fillers, and artificial additives.
- Free from cellulose, a wood pulp that is added to powdered mixes to prevent caking.
The result is a velvety, indulgent treat free from unnecessary ingredients that supports your health while satisfying your sweet tooth!
What Is The Difference Between Hot Cocoa And Hot Chocolate?
Hot cocoa and hot chocolate are often used interchangeably, but there is actually a slight difference between the two! The difference is in the ingredients and preparation.
Hot cocoa is typically made with cocoa powder, which is derived from cocoa beans after the cocoa butter has been removed. This means hot cocoa is a lighter, sweeter drink that often includes sugar and milk for added creaminess.
Hot chocolate, on the other hand, is made by melting actual chocolate pieces or bars into hot milk or water. Because it retains the cocoa butter, hot chocolate is thicker, creamier, and more decadent than its counterpart. This gives the drink a richer, more intense chocolate flavor and is often less sweet, making it a luxurious treat.
So technically, what you end up with depends on what ingredients you use!
- For a lighter, sweeter drink, choose cocoa powder and hot cocoa.
- For something a bit richer, opt for hot chocolate.
Both have their place, depending on your mood and craving!
What Is The Best Kind Of Milk To Use?
The best milk for hot chocolate depends on your taste preferences and dietary needs, but full-fat milk is often considered the gold standard for achieving a rich, creamy texture.
- Full-fat milk enhances the decadent chocolate flavor and provides a luscious, velvety consistency that’s hard to beat.
- If you’re looking for an even more indulgent option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for extra creaminess.
- For a healthier alternative, opt for grass-fed milk, which is higher in omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) than conventional milk.
- Plant-based options, such as oat milk or coconut milk are also great choices, especially for those who are dairy-free. Oat milk is naturally creamy, and coconut milk contributes a delicious tropical twist. If going dairy-free, we love the Elmhurst brand of plant milks.
Ultimately, the best milk for hot chocolate is one that complements your desired flavor and texture while meeting your nutritional preferences. Just make sure to look for plant-based options that have only necessary ingredients and not thickeners or preservatives.
Healthy Hot Chocolate Ingredients
- Organic, grass-fed or raw milk: If you want a dairy-free option, simply switch to coconut or oat milk. We use the Elmhurst brand when we want dairy-free.
- Chicken bone broth: I like to use the Trader Joe’s one or the one from Kettle & Fire. Make sure to just use plain chicken!
- Dark chocolate squares: I typically use around 70% dark chocolate, but you can use any you prefer. Just remember that the lower the percentage, the sweeter the chocolate.
- Cocoa powder: This adds a bit more chocolate flavor.
- Maple syrup: You can use another sweetener if desired! Mix in honey, sucanat, or even can sugar. If using cane sugar, lower the amount.
- Optional: Vanilla extract: I like to add a little vanilla for a bit of extra flavor.
- Optional toppings: Homemade whipped cream, crushed candy canes, slivers of chocolate, gut-healthy marshmallows, etc.
Healthy Hot Chocolate Variations
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. Top with crushed candy canes or a sprig of mint for extra flair.
- Spiced Hot Chocolate: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a warming, spicy kick.
- Turmeric Hot Chocolate: Add 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper for an anti-inflammatory boost with a subtle earthy flavor.
- Matcha Hot Chocolate: Blend in a teaspoon of matcha powder for a unique, antioxidant-rich combination of green tea and chocolate.
- Protein-Packed Hot Chocolate: Stir in a scoop of your favorite unflavored or chocolate-flavored protein powder to make it a post-workout treat. If using chocolate protein powder, omit the cocoa powder and consider lowering the amount of chocolate squares used!
- Lavender Hot Chocolate: Infuse the milk with dried culinary lavender (or a couple drops of Lavender Vitality essential oil) for a fragrant, calming twist.
- Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate: Stir in a spoonful of natural peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate: Add a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-savory indulgence.
Hot Chocolate Cooking Options
You can make this delicious hot chocolate on the stove top or in a slow cooker. I love tripling the recipe and making it in a slow cooker when serving a crowd!
- Stovetop: Warm the milk and bone broth over the stove over medium heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder until dissolved, then add the chocolate squares one at a time, allowing them to melt. Finally, add the maple syrup and vanilla and stir well. Transfer to mugs, top with toppings, and enjoy!
- Slow Cooker: Add the milk, bone broth, cocoa powder, and chocolate squares to your slow cooker. Use a whisk or spoon to mix well, breaking up the chocolate as it melts. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the mixture warm up for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Once the hot chocolate is fully heated and the chocolate is melted, stir in the vanilla extract and maple syrup. Transfer to mugs, top with desired toppings, and enjoy!
Healthy Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is one of my favorite cold weather treats, so having a healthy hot chocolate recipe is a must! This recipe has all the delicious, decadent chocolate but includes collagen and nutrients to balance out the sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1&1/2 cups organic, grass-fed milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup organic chicken bone broth
- 2 Tablespoons cocoa powder
- 4-6 squares 70% dark chocolate
- 4 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Optional: 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm the milk and bone broth on the stove over medium heat.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder until dissolved, then add the chocolate squares one at a time, stirring until melted.
- Finallly, stir in the maple syrup and vanilla (if using).
- Transfer to mugs and top with homemade whipped cream, homemade collagen marshmallows, a miniature candy cane, chocolate shavings, or other favorite toppings.
Notes
- Use oat or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- If you don't want to fully make the hot chocolate from scratch, simply mix the milk and bone broth with this homemade cocoa mix powder. Use 1/4 cup of mix for 2 cups of liquid.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
