Reasons to make Homemade hot Chocolate

Highly customizable – feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup or chocolate, or experiment with various types of chocolate. Low sugar – contains much less sugar compared to store-bought hot chocolate packets. Minimal, clean ingredients -You just need ingredients, most, if not all, may already be in your pantry. There are no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, etc. SO easy to make – just add all the ingredients to a small saucepan and whisk! Ready in under 5 minutes. Kid-favorite – my kids actually prefer this version over the store-bought mixes and it’s a fun way to let your child customize it by adding their favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Milk – feel free to use your favorite milk! My kids drink whole milk, so it’s always on hand, resulting in the richest hot chocolate. But you can use reduced fat milk or any dairy-free milk of choice, like almond milk or soy milk. Here’s the ultimate guide to best milk for toddlers. Unsweetened cocoa powder – I prefer this over cacao powder as it can taste a bit bitter Maple syrup – start with the recommended amount and add more, if desired. Chocolate chips – you can use just cocoa powder but combining with chocolate chips creates a more complex and chocolate-y flavor while adding creaminess and richness. Creamy peanut butter – you can leave this out but if you desire a slightly nutty and creamier hot chocolate, give it a try! Be sure to use smooth not crunchy peanut butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toppings

While delicious as is, you can elevate your hot chocolate experience with these toppings:

Whipped cream Peanut butter drizzle and/or crushed peanuts Marshmallows Chocolate shavings Spices – cinnamon or nutmeg will create a cozy and comforting flavor profile

More Chocolate Recipes

Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!

Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 13Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 91Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 33Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 89Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 4Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 36Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 41Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 56Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 49Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 65Healthy Hot Chocolate  with Peanut Butter  - 25