Vegan Mexican Hot Chocolate

This vegan Mexican hot chocolate is a rich, creamy and cozy concoction that will warm you from the inside out. Imagine this: sweet cinnamon and spicy cayenne, luscious coconut milk base and rich cacao. It’s perfect for chilly winter nights, festive holiday gatherings or simply treating yourself. This recipe is also dairy free and vegan! It’s basically magic in a mug. This vegan Mexican hot chocolate makes the perfect night cap, romantic treat for a cozy Valentine’s Day date or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any festive occasion. The best part is that it can be ready in less than 10 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate

This vegan Mexican hot chocolate is so quick and easy to make!

It is the perfect mix of sweet and spicy.

This drink is gluten free, dairy free and vegan.

It is the perfect hot chocolate drink for a cold winter night.

It can be ready in less than 10 minutes!

This drink is so comforting, warming and delicious.

It is perfect to serve at your holiday party!

What is Mexican Hot Chocolate?

In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico and encountered this exotic beverage. While they found the bitterness and spiciness unpalatable, they recognized its potential. They added sugar, cinnamon and milk, transforming xocolatl into a sweeter, creamier concoction that appealed to their European taste buds. This fusion birthed the Mexican hot chocolate we know and love today.

Over time, Mexican hot chocolate evolved further, incorporating regional ingredients and traditions. Piloncillo, unrefined cane sugar, replaced refined sugar, adding a unique caramel flavor. Molinitos, wooden whisks, became a signature tool for frothing the drink, creating a light and airy texture.

Today, Mexican hot chocolate continues to captivate taste buds worldwide. Restaurants and cafes offer modern interpretations, while home cooks cherish traditional recipes passed down through generations. The rich, spicy and comforting flavors continue to entice, reminding us of the drink’s ancient roots.

Equipment Needed

All you need to make this vegan Mexican 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.

Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a kick to this drink!

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 leftovers, but if you want to store this vegan Mexican hot chocolate, let it cool first. Pour it into an airtight container and store for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. To heat up, place back in a pan over medium heat or microwave.

Variations

This vegan Mexican hot chocolate is super adaptable!

Try adding espresso powder for extra flavor.

Freeze your hot chocolate for a unique and flavorful homemade ice cream with a kick.

Add almond extract to add extra flavor!

If you like your hot chocolate extra sweet, add extra maple syrup or sugar.

Toppings

The topping options for this vegan Mexican hot chocolate are endless!

Try using marshmallows, ice cream, whipped cream, star anise, cinnamon sticks or a caramel drizzle.

Recipe FAQ

What is the difference between Mexican hot chocolate and hot chocolate?

Embraces spicy warmth with cinnamon and often adds a kick of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. This creates a unique depth and balance of sweet and spicy.

Can I make this vegan Mexican hot chocolate in a slow cooker?

Yes, this vegan Mexican hot chocolate can be made in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the chocolate melts and the mixture is hot and frothy. 

How can I keep this hot chocolate warm for parties?

Keep the hot chocolate in a slow cooker and leave it on low.

What does Mexican hot chocolate taste like?

Imagine dark chocolate’s creamy richness with cinnamon and cayenne, all wrapped in a warm, frothy hug. That’s the taste of Mexican hot chocolate – pure bliss in a mug.

Related Recipes

Be sure to try these fun drinks next:

Bone Broth Hot Chocolate

Vanilla Matcha Latte

S’mores Hot Chocolate

Pumpkin Cider

Watermelon Lime Slushie

If you make this vegan Mexican 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.