Ditch the ordinary hot cocoa and dive into a mug of sweet cinnamon hot chocolate! This decadent and creamy drink is perfect for cozying up on a cold winter night. Imagine velvety chocolate with sweet cinnamon swirls, topped with pillowy marshmallows. This cinnamon hot chocolate only calls for a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The best part is that it’s ready to drink in about 10 minutes! It’s also super kid-friendly and the perfect way to warm up after a long day of ice skating or sledding.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate
It’s so easy to make!
You probably already have the ingredients to make it in your pantry.
It’s very kid-friendly.
It can easily be made gluten free and dairy free.
This cinnamon hot chocolate is decadent and creamy.
The cinnamon adds a delicious sweetness to this drink.
It only takes about 10 minutes to throw together!
Equipment Needed
All you need to make this cinnamon hot chocolate is a pot.
Ingredients Needed
Coconut Milk: I used coconut milk for the base of this vegan Mexican hot chocolate because it is vegan and dairy free, but also creamy and delicious.
Cacao Powder: Cacao powder has many benefits and gives this hot chocolate its rich flavor.
Cinnamon: Adding cinnamon to this hot chocolate creates depth, warmth and comfort.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a great option to sweeten this hot chocolate. Feel free to omit it or substitute it for coconut sugar or honey.
Chocolate Chips: Chocolate chips add extra decadence to this drink. They are totally optional!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Combine all ingredients in a pot and cook over medium heat until warm and chocolate chips are melted.
Step 3: Serve and enjoy!
Storage
I highly doubt you will have any of this cinnamon hot chocolate left over! If you do, you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. To heat, place back in a pan over medium heat or microwave in a mug.
Toppings
When it comes to topping your cinnamon hot chocolate, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas:
Whipped cream: A traditional and decadent choice, adding a fluffy sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spice.
Marshmallows: Toasty or mini, they melt like clouds in your hot chocolate, adding a gooey goodness.
Shaved chocolate: Dark or milk, it adds a rich chocolatey layer and a satisfying visual appeal.
Chili flakes: For a touch of heat that dances with the cinnamon, adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Cinnamon sticks: Adds a subtle crunch and extra cinnamon fragrance.
Sea salt: A surprising counterpoint to the sweetness, bringing out the chocolate’s depth.
Crushed nuts: Pecans, walnuts or almonds add a nutty texture and richness.
Variations
There are so many ways to switch up this cinnamon hot chocolate. Try out:
Chili Heat: Infuse your chocolate with chipotle or ancho chili powder for a smoky, earthy edge. Adjust the heat to your preference for a subtle tingle or a fiery fiesta.
Nutty Blend: Toast almonds, hazelnuts or pecans and infuse your milk with their rich aroma and creamy texture.
Nut Butter: Stir in a spoonful of but butter for a surprising and decadent twist, reminiscent of popular Mexican brands.
White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate and garnish with chopped macadamia nuts for a luxurious twist.
Mint: Muddle a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing, invigorating twist..
Rosemary: Infuse your milk with a sprig of rosemary for a unique and earthy touch.
Spiced Ice Cream: Freeze your hot chocolate for a unique and flavorful homemade ice cream.
Recipe FAQ
Do chocolate and cinnamon go well together?
Personally, I think they taste delicious together!
Is this recipe gluten free and dairy free?
Yes! This recipe is gluten free and dairy free as long as you make sure all ingredients used are gluten free and dairy free.
Why does Mexican chocolate have cinnamon?
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they found xocolatl too bitter and spicy for their European palates. They craved a sweeter, creamier experience, so they introduced sugar, milk and a secret weapon – cinnamon! Its warm, inviting aroma and subtly sweet, complex flavor perfectly complemented the rich chocolate, creating a new and iconic beverage.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to double this recipe!
Related Recipes
Be sure to try these cozy drinks next:
If you make this cinnamon hot chocolate and love it, I would really appreciate a 5 star review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or TikTok.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate
Equipment
- 1 pot
Ingredients
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 1/2 tbsp cacao powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp chocolate chips
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Combine all ingredients in a pot and cook over medium heat until warm and chocolate chips are melted.
- Serve and enjoy!
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