Name: Healthy Vegan Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (12 ounces or 360 mL) plant-based milk, divided (such as almond, oat, or soy milk); 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Scant 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Scant 1/8 teaspoon allspice; 2 ½ tablespoons (15-20g) raw cacao powder; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup; 1/2 tablespoon blackstrap molasses; 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder

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Introduction

Cozy up with this Healthy Vegan Gingerbread Hot Chocolate, a perfectly spiced and creamy treat that’s both comforting and nourishing. Made with plant-based milk and warming spices, it’s an ideal beverage for chilly days or holiday evenings.

Two white ceramic mugs filled with rich, dark brown hot chocolate sit on a white plate on top of a white marbled textured surface. Each mug has drips of hot chocolate running down the sides, adding a casual, homemade feel. On top of the hot chocolate is a thick layer of fluffy white whipped cream, slightly melting into the drink, sprinkled with small, dark chocolate shavings. Each mug is also garnished with a single cinnamon stick standing upright in the whipped cream. Next to the mugs on the plate are a few pieces of broken dark chocolate. The scene is cozy and inviting, with soft textures and warm tones. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (12 ounces or 360 mL) plant-based milk*, divided
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Scant 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Scant 1/8 teaspoon allspice
2 ½ tablespoons (15-20g) raw cacao powder
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup**
1/2 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
1 tablespoon arrowroot powder***

Instructions

Step 1: Pour 1 cup (8 ounces or 240 mL) of the plant-based milk into a small or medium saucepan. Add the ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, raw cacao powder, maple syrup, and blackstrap molasses. Bring to a rapid simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally to incorporate the cacao powder and spices fully into the milk.
Step 2: While the mixture is heating, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup (4 ounces or 120 mL) of plant-based milk with the arrowroot powder in a small bowl until smooth and no clumps remain.
Step 3: Once the hot chocolate reaches a rapid simmer, slowly pour in the arrowroot slurry, whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 30 to 45 seconds. If doubling the recipe, expect a longer thickening time.
Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and serve the hot chocolate warm. Enjoy your cozy, spiced drink!

Tips & Variations

Use almond, oat, or soy milk depending on your preference for creaminess and flavor.
Adjust the spices to taste; more ginger for extra warmth or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
For added richness, stir in a splash of coconut cream before serving.
Maple syrup and molasses can be substituted with agave nectar or brown sugar if needed.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to restore creaminess. Avoid boiling after reheating to prevent separation.

How to Serve

Two white mugs filled with a rich, dark brown drink sit on a white plate. Each mug is topped with a thick, fluffy layer of white whipped cream sprinkled with small pieces of dark chocolate. A slim cinnamon stick stands upright in the whipped cream of both mugs. One mug shows some whipped cream mixing into the drink, creating swirls of light brown and white. The white plate underneath has a loose swirl of chocolate sauce and some chocolate crumbs scattered around, placed over a soft, cream-colored knitted cloth, on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of plant-based milk?

Yes, you can use regular dairy milk if you prefer, but it will no longer be vegan. The recipe works well with any milk, so choose what suits your dietary needs.

What is the purpose of arrowroot powder in this recipe?

Arrowroot powder acts as a natural thickener, giving the hot chocolate a smooth, luxurious texture without being heavy or starchy.