If you have a soft spot for cozy drinks but need to avoid dairy, this Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine a rich, creamy cup of hot chocolate that feels indulgent yet light, whipped up in minutes from simple pantry staples. With the perfect balance of deep Dutch-processed cocoa, smooth powdered coconut or oat milk, just a hint of sweetness, and a little sea salt to bring out the flavors, this mix is your go-to for chilly days, movie nights, or anytime you crave warmth in a mug. Plus, it stores beautifully for months, ready whenever you need a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dreamy Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe, you only need a handful of basic but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the dairy-free milk powder offers the creamy base, the cocoa powder delivers that luscious chocolatey punch, and the cornstarch ensures a smooth, clump-free mix. These ingredients come together effortlessly to give you a delicious, velvety hot chocolate every time.
- 1½ cups powdered dairy-free milk: Coconut or oat milk powder gives the mix its creamy mouthfeel without any dairy.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness that melts perfectly in hot liquid.
- ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder: For a rich, deep chocolate flavor that’s smooth and less acidic.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Keeps the mix from clumping, ensuring silky hot chocolate without any lumps.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the chocolate notes pop even more.
How to Make Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients so everything is within reach. Accurate measurements here make a perfect mix, especially with powdered items. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Combine in a Large Bowl
Pour the powdered dairy-free milk, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and sea salt into a large mixing bowl. Using a whisk, stir thoroughly until everything is completely combined and you see no streaks of separate powders. This ensures a consistent flavor in every spoonful when you prepare your hot chocolate.
Step 3: Store Your Mix
Transfer the finished mix into an airtight container to keep it fresh. Stored properly, it will stay delicious for up to 6 months at room temperature. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture from getting in and causing clumps.
How to Serve Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this dairy-free hot chocolate mix is that it’s a perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. Sprinkle some dairy-free mini marshmallows, add a cinnamon stick, or top with a few silky dairy-free chocolate chips melted right into the cup. A dollop of coconut whipped cream is another heavenly touch that turns your simple mug into a decadent treat.
Side Dishes
Pair your hot chocolate with crunchy biscotti, gluten-free cookies, or fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas. These sides complement the warm, chocolatey drink without overpowering the delicate flavors of the dairy-free mix. They’re perfect for snacking during cozy chats or quiet moments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this hot chocolate mix in clear glass mugs layered with a shot of espresso for a mocha version or blended into a smoothie with banana and ice for a chilled treat. You can also gift the mix in pretty jars tied with ribbons to friends and family, complete with instructions – it’s a sweet way to share your love of this easy recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you have your Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe ready, keep the leftovers tightly sealed in an airtight container. Stored in a cool, dry place, it will maintain its freshness and flavor for up to 6 months, making it a convenient option for spontaneous cozy moments.
Freezing
This hot chocolate mix doesn’t require freezing since it stores well at room temperature, but if you want to stock up beyond 6 months, you could freeze it in an airtight container. Just allow it to come to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply scoop ¼ cup of the mix into your favorite mug and pour hot water or dairy-free milk over it. Stir well using a spoon or a handheld frother until perfectly smooth and creamy. Heating the liquid, not the mix, preserves the powder’s integrity and flavor better.
FAQs
Can I use any dairy-free milk powder?
Absolutely! Coconut and oat milk powders work beautifully here for their creamy texture and subtle flavors, but you can experiment with other dairy-free powders like almond or soy to find your perfect match.
Why is cornstarch included in the recipe?
Cornstarch prevents the mix from clumping by absorbing any moisture. It keeps your hot chocolate silky smooth, especially during storage, so you get a flawless cup every time.
Can this mix be sweetened differently?
You can tweak the sweetness by reducing or increasing powdered sugar or even trying natural sweeteners like coconut sugar, but powdered sugar blends best for that smooth, dissolve-in-hot-liquid texture.
How do I make this hot chocolate richer?
To amplify richness, try stirring in some dairy-free chocolate chips while the drink is hot or adding a splash of full-fat coconut milk instead of water for an extra creamy indulgence.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! This homemade mix is gentle, naturally dairy-free, and free from any artificial additives, making it a fun and safe treat for children on dairy-free diets or anyone who loves a comforting mug of hot chocolate.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe is so simple, versatile, and downright delicious that once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s the cozy hug in a mug that fits into any lifestyle, perfect for sharing or savoring solo. So grab your whisk, mix up a batch, and enjoy the comforting warmth of dairy-free hot chocolate anytime you want.
Print
Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This homemade dairy-free hot chocolate mix is a quick and easy recipe that creates a rich, comforting drink without any dairy. Made from powdered coconut or oat milk, cocoa, powdered sugar, and cornstarch, it’s perfect for cozying up on chilly days or serving as a thoughtful gift. Simply mix the dry ingredients once, store them for up to six months, and prepare a warm cup in minutes by adding hot water or your favorite milk alternative.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cup powdered dairy free milk (such as coconut milk powder or oat milk powder)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the powdered dairy-free milk, powdered sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, cornstarch, and sea salt. Using a whisk, mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined and no clumps remain.
- Store the Mix: Transfer the combined mixture into an airtight container. Store it at room temperature, keeping it fresh and dry for up to 6 months.
- Prepare Hot Chocolate: When ready to enjoy, measure 1/4 cup of the mix into a mug. Pour hot water or your preferred milk alternative over the mix. Stir vigorously with a spoon until fully dissolved. For a frothier texture, use a handheld frother to blend the mix and liquid together.
- Optional Additions: Enhance your hot chocolate by melting some chocolate chips into the drink or topping it with marshmallows as desired. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy dairy-free treat!
Notes
- Cornstarch prevents clumping during storage, but if you plan on using the mix within a week, you can omit it.
- Preferred dairy-free milk powders for this recipe include coconut milk powder and oat milk powder for optimal flavor and creaminess.
- Store the hot chocolate mix in a tightly sealed container at room temperature to keep it fresh for up to six months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
