How to Make Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe: A Simple Christmas Tradition
Create a cozy Christmas tradition with this simple homemade hot chocolate recipe made with clean ingredients. Wholesome, delicious, and family-approved!
There’s something magical about a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a chilly winter evening. For my family, it’s not just a drink—it’s part of our favorite Christmas tradition. Every year, we whip up this simple, homemade hot chocolate, pile into the car, and drive around looking at Christmas lights. The warmth of the cocoa and the joy of the season make for memories that last a lifetime.
This hot chocolate recipe is made with real, wholesome ingredients—no processed sugar or mystery powders. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the result is a rich, creamy drink that your whole family will love.
Why Homemade Hot Chocolate?
Store-bought hot chocolate mixes are convenient, but they’re often loaded with preservatives and artificial sweeteners. Making your own:
Makes for a heartwarming family activity—kids love helping!
Allows you to use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Gives you a richer, creamier flavor.
Why Use Real Ingredients in Your Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe?
When it comes to hot chocolate, there’s no comparison between homemade and store-bought mixes. While pre-packaged versions are convenient, they often contain a long list of ingredients like preservatives, artificial flavors, and refined sugar. By using real, wholesome ingredients, you get a treat that’s not only healthier but also richer in flavor and texture.
Here’s why real ingredients make all the difference:
- Better Taste: Real cocoa powder delivers a deep, chocolatey flavor that no artificial mix can match. When paired with pure vanilla extract and a hint of natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, the result is indulgent without being overly sweet.
- Healthier Choice: Many hot chocolate mixes rely on refined sugar or additives, but making it from scratch allows you to use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or even coconut sugar. These alternatives provide a cleaner energy boost without the sugar crash.
- Full Control: Homemade hot chocolate puts you in control of the ingredients. Want it creamier? Use whole milk. Prefer it dairy-free? Almond or oat milk works beautifully. You can adjust the sweetness to your family’s preferences and experiment with fun add-ins like peppermint or cinnamon.
- Comfort in Simplicity: There’s something truly comforting about knowing exactly what’s going into your cup. Simple, clean ingredients make this recipe feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
By choosing real ingredients, you’re creating more than just a drink—you’re crafting a cozy, nourishing experience that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Any time I share a photo of my pottery I get asked several questions about it. In short, it is Henn Pottery and no longer made. I’ll link to some similar mugs in case you’re interested. Green Henn Mugs
Healthy and Delicious Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
- 4 cups milk un-sweetened if non-dairy
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp cayenne optional
- 3 TBS unsweetened cocoa powder
Optional Toppings:
- Homemade whipped cream
- Dark chocolate shavings
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a sauce pot, and warm over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk.
- Pour into cups and serve
Make It Your Own
This recipe is perfect as-is, but you can easily customize it:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a creamy alternative.
- Peppermint Twist: Stir in a drop of peppermint extract for a festive flavor.
- Extra Rich: Add a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips while heating for a decadent version.
Create Your Own Cozy Christmas Tradition
For our family, Christmas isn’t complete without a big pot of this homemade hot chocolate recipe simmering on the stove. It’s more than just a drink—it’s part of the holiday magic we look forward to every year.
Once the hot cocoa is ready, we grab cozy blankets, pile into the car, and set out on our annual Christmas light drive. The kids stare out of the windows, calling out their favorite displays while we sip our hot chocolate and hum along to carols playing softly on the radio. It’s a simple, affordable tradition, but it’s the kind of moment that creates lasting memories.
There’s something special about slowing down and soaking in the season, one cup of cocoa at a time. In a season that often feels rushed and overwhelming, these little moments remind us to pause, breathe, and enjoy the beauty around us.
If you’re looking to start your own tradition, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Pair this homemade hot chocolate recipe with:
- A Christmas movie marathon: Snuggle up with blankets, mugs of cocoa, and family favorites like Home Alone or The Polar Express.
- Storytime by the fire: Read classic Christmas tales like The Night Before Christmas while everyone enjoys their hot cocoa.
- Holiday baking day: Make a batch of cookies or homemade marshmallows to pair with your cocoa—perfect for gifting or enjoying as a family treat.
Whether it’s a light drive, a cozy evening in, or a festive baking day, traditions like these are a beautiful way to connect, slow down, and savor the season together.
FAQs About My Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
1. Can I make homemade hot chocolate ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for making in advance. Simply prepare the hot chocolate as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring to recombine the ingredients.
2. What’s the best milk to use for creamy hot chocolate?
For a rich and creamy texture, whole milk works best. If you prefer a dairy-free version, oat milk and coconut milk are excellent alternatives because of their natural creaminess. Almond milk is also a great option for a lighter version.
3. How can I make this hot chocolate even richer?
If you love extra creamy, decadent hot chocolate, here are a few easy tricks:
- Add a splash of heavy cream while heating the cocoa.
- Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of dark chocolate chips for added richness.
- Top with homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings.
4. Can I use regular sugar instead of honey or maple syrup?
Yes, you can substitute regular granulated sugar or even coconut sugar in this recipe. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your taste. However, honey and maple syrup add a lovely depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cocoa.
5. How do I make peppermint hot chocolate?
To give your hot chocolate a festive peppermint twist, simply stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract after removing the cocoa from the heat. Top with crushed candy canes for an extra holiday touch.
6. Can I double or triple this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales easily. Double or triple the ingredients and heat in a large pot on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure everything combines smoothly. Serve it in a slow cooker to keep it warm for gatherings.
Want More Christmas Inspiration?
- Simple Country Christmas Farmhouse Tour
- My BEST Christmas Decorating Tip…EVER!
- How to Declutter Holiday Decorations You Don’t Love
- Creative Ways to Save on Holiday Meals This Year
Share the Cozy Joy
If you’re looking for a simple way to bring warmth and joy to your family this Christmas, give this homemade hot chocolate recipe a try. Pin it, share it, and let me know how you enjoy it with your family!
What’s your favorite holiday tradition? I’d love to hear in the comments below!
Delicious, Healthy Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk un-sweetened if non-dairy
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp cayenne optional
- 3 TBS unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a sauce pot, and warm over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk.
- Pour into cups and serve
As always, thanks so much for spending a little part of your day with me! Merry Christmas!
Here’s an image to pin for later…
