Vegan hot chocolate (two ways)

Winter may not have come yet but the cold is starting to creep in. What better way to warm up than with a delicious hot chocolate to start your day or end your evening?

Festive drinks are starting to be released in cafés across the country, but these cost-efficient recipes can cater to all your cosy needs – whether you’re vegan or not! With few ingredients and your standard kitchen equipment, you will be enjoying your hot beverage in no time.

Hot chocolate milk with toasted marshmallows

I discovered this recipe one night at university and it’s become my go-to hot chocolate for when I’m feeling lazy. Rich and sweet, this drink has got me through a lot of online lectures.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• 350ml chocolate soya milk

• 1 tbsp vegan chocolate spread

• Vegan marshmallows

Instructions:

• Heat through the milk in a saucepan at a medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Stir occasionally. Alternatively you can heat it up in the microwave!

• Meanwhile, place marshmallows on a baking sheet and pan, and preheat the oven to 200 degrees.

• Add your chocolate spread to the saucepan, stirring it until it melts into the milk.

• Toast your marshmallows in the oven for 1-2 minutes on both sides.

• Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top it off with your toasted marshmallows. It’s as easy and quick as that!

Creamy coconut hot chocolate

On the other hand, if you’re feeling something a little more luxurious, this is the perfect frothy cocoa to rejuvenate your spirits.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• 3/4 can of coconut milk

• 2 tbsp unsweetened dark cocoa powder

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• 2-3 tbsp vegan chocolate chips

Instructions:

• Add all ingredients to a pot and place over medium heat on the hob.

• Stir often to avoid ingredients burning to the bottom.

• Once all ingredients have melted and are heated through, pour into your mug.

• (Feel free to add your own toppings!)

Whether you’re settling in for a movie in bed or need an energy boost to get you out of bed, these luscious drinks tick all the right boxes.

Featured image credit: HelloFresh