Name: Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 8 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups dairy free milk (such as canned coconut milk or homemade cashew milk). If not dairy-free, use regular whole milk.; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp cocoa powder; 1.5 ounce dairy free chocolate chips (about 1/4 cup). If not dairy-free, use regular chocolate chips.; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/8 tsp salt; Cocoa powder; Chocolate chips; Cinnamon; Candy cane; Coconut whipped cream

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If you have a soft spot for comforting drinks that bring warmth and a touch of spice to chilly days, this Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a luscious blend of creamy dairy-free milk, rich cocoa, and a whisper of cinnamon and cayenne that dances on your taste buds. This recipe nails the perfect balance – indulgently smooth yet spirited with a spicy kick. Whether you’re craving an afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy nightcap, this hot chocolate brings a burst of Mexican-inspired flavor with every sip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal measuring spoon filled with brown cocoa powder, slightly mounded and spilling a little onto a white marbled surface. To the right of the spoon, there are three pieces of dark chocolate, one large rectangular piece at the top, one smaller square piece below it, and part of a bar with segmented squares at the bottom. The dark chocolate pieces have smooth, glossy surfaces with a few small marks. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the secret to creating a truly authentic and delicious Mexican hot chocolate. Each item plays a vital role, from the creamy texture of the dairy-free milk to the warming spices that create that signature flavor.

2 cups dairy free milk: Choose a creamy option like canned coconut milk or homemade cashew milk for extra richness, but regular whole milk works beautifully too.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: This spice infuses the drink with warmth and a hint of sweetness.
2 tbsp cocoa powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for a deeply chocolatey base.
1.5 ounce dairy free chocolate chips: About a quarter cup, these melt into silky smoothness; regular chocolate chips can substitute if preferred.
1 tbsp maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness and complements the spices beautifully.
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle vanilla note.
1/4 tsp nutmeg: Gives the hot chocolate a nostalgic, gently spicy undertone.
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper: Just a pinch to introduce that signature Mexican heat without overwhelming.
1/8 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the chocolate’s depth.
Optional garnishes: Cocoa powder, chocolate chips, cinnamon sticks, or even a candy cane for a festive touch.

How to Make Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Milk and Cinnamon

Start by pouring your chosen dairy-free milk and ground cinnamon into a saucepan. Place it over medium-low heat and slowly bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the cinnamon to infuse the milk for about 2 to 3 minutes, whisking occasionally to prevent any burning or sticking. This step ensures your drink will have a smooth texture and a subtle, warming spice base.

Step 2: Blend in the Cocoa and Chocolate

Next, add the cocoa powder and chocolate chips right into the cinnamon-infused milk. Stir constantly as they melt, which usually takes about 3 minutes. This melting process creates a rich and velvety chocolate mix that’s the heart of the recipe.

Step 3: Sweeten and Spice It Up

Once the chocolate is fully melted, whisk in the maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients transform your hot chocolate into a crave-worthy treat, balancing sweetness, warmth, and a subtle spicy kick characteristic of the Mexican style.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the luscious hot chocolate into two mugs straight from the stove. The enticing aroma of spices and chocolate fills the air, setting the stage for a cozy moment. Now it’s time to customize your drink with your favorite garnishes or simply sip it as is.

How to Serve Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe

Two clear glass cups filled with hot chocolate sit on a white marbled surface. Each cup has a thick dark brown layer of chocolate at the bottom and a lighter creamy froth on top sprinkled with cocoa powder and small chocolate shavings. One cup is closer in the front with the words

Garnishes

Garnishes take your hot chocolate experience to a new level and make it feel extra special. A dollop of coconut whipped cream adds creamy richness and a beautiful contrast in texture. Sprinkle a little cocoa powder, dust cinnamon over the top, or scatter chopped chocolate pieces for extra flair. For a festive twist, toss in a crushed candy cane to meld peppermint into the spicy chocolate fusion.

Side Dishes

This hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with sweet and savory snacks alike. Fresh churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, a slice of moist tres leches cake, or even simple butter cookies complement the drink perfectly. The warm spices in the hot chocolate echo many classic Mexican desserts, making it an ideal partner for a comforting treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like impressing your guests? Serve your hot chocolate in clear glass mugs or vintage enamel cups to showcase its rich color. Add mini skewers with toasted marshmallows or a cinnamon stick for stirring. For a party, create a hot chocolate bar with various garnishes and mix-ins, letting everyone customize their cups. Presentation can be part of the fun and elevates this easy Mexican hot chocolate recipe from everyday drink to memorable indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (a surprise for such a tempting recipe!), pour the remaining hot chocolate into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves its fresh flavors, making reheating easy and hassle-free.

Freezing

Freezing this hot chocolate isn’t recommended due to the dairy-free milk base and chocolate, which can separate or alter textures after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheat your stored hot chocolate gently on the stovetop over low heat. Whisk frequently to bring back that silky smooth consistency without scorching. Avoid using the microwave, which can sometimes change the texture and cause uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of dairy-free milk?

Absolutely! If dairy-free isn’t a concern, whole milk or any milk of your choice works beautifully in this recipe. The key is to use a milk with enough creaminess to create a rich texture.

How spicy is this Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe?

The cayenne pepper adds a gentle warmth rather than overwhelming heat. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your preference, adding more for a bolder kick or less for a milder drink.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan when you use dairy-free milk and chocolate chips, plus maple syrup as the sweetener. It’s a fantastic plant-based treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this hot chocolate for kids?

Simply omit the cayenne pepper for a kid-friendly version. You can add fun toppings like marshmallows or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to keep it special and delicious.

Is it possible to make the spiced milk base ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the cinnamon-infused milk in advance, refrigerate it, then reheat and add the chocolate chips when you’re ready to serve. This saves minutes while keeping the flavors fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe is the perfect way to cozy up and indulge in a sweet, spicy treat that feels like a warm hug in a mug. Its simple ingredients and quick steps make it approachable for any skill level, and the flavor is nothing short of magical. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to comfort drink whenever you want to savor a little bit of Mexico at home.

Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need