This cozy oat milk hot chocolate is ready in under 5 minutes! It's rich, creamy, and made with just 5 simple ingredients and real chocolate. You can whip it up in the microwave or on the stovetop-your choice!
5-minute homemade hot chocolate with oat milk
Nothing screams sweater weather and the holidays more than hot chocolate. So, if you loved my high protein hot chocolate recipe, you will LOVE this creamy oat milk one.
This hot chocolate takes me back to those magical trips to the Christmas tree farm with my family-bundled up, snow crunching underfoot, hands wrapped around a cup of hot cocoa to stay warm-pure joy.
I love oat milk hot chocolate because it's rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet. Honestly, it's even better than traditional hot chocolate. Oat milk has a luxurious creaminess that outshines regular or almond milk. It's dairy-free, but you'd never guess.
Making this hot chocolate is a breeze-whether you whisk it up on the stovetop or pop it in the microwave. It's an easy treat anyone can enjoy, regardless of your cooking skills.
Just pour yourself a cup, add some whipped cream, and cozy up on the couch with a blanket and a good book. This hot chocolate will surely be a hit with everyone-especially the kids! Let me know what you think in the comments below.
Why you'll love this recipe:
- Rich & Creamy: this oat milk hot chocolate is warm and cozy!
- Healthy: Made without random ingredients, fillers, or preservatives.
- 5 Ingredients: this recipe is made with oat milk, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and real chocolate.
- Sweet: This hot cocoa is sweet, but not too sweet.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love this recipe.
- Cozy Winter Drink: Oat milk hot cocoa is the perfect cold-weather drink.
- Make it Vegan: Easily make this hot chocolate vegan with dairy-free chocolate.
- Customizable: I left a long list of variations and substitutions below!
- Try this cozy protein hot chocolate next!
Ingredients needed
You only need five ingredients to whip up this quick and easy homemade oat milk hot chocolate! It's the perfect cozy winter drink. Here's what you'll need:
- Oat Milk makes the hot chocolate extra creamy and rich. You'll need 4 cups of your favorite brand. You can substitute it with soy milk, coconut milk, cow's milk, almond milk, or skim milk.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This gives the hot chocolate that deep, rich chocolate flavor. I don't recommend the Trader Joe's brand as it tends to lack flavor. You can also use hot cocoa mix as a substitute, but remember it'll add extra sugar.
- Sugar: For sweetness, add your favorite sweetener. I used sugar, but coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup also works.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a dash for that perfect flavor boost.
- Semisweet Chocolate: My secret ingredient for an ultra-rich, chocolaty taste. Melt ⅓ cup of semisweet chocolate into the oat milk for the best flavor. If you're going for a vegan option, use dairy-free chocolate.
Kitchen tools needed
Making homemade hot chocolate is super simple, and you only need a few basic tools. Here's what you'll need:
- Small Pot
- Spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
How to make oat milk hot chocolate from scratch
This foolproof homemade oat milk hot chocolate comes together in three simple steps! You can make it on the stovetop in a pot or the microwave. It is rich, creamy, and sure to be a family favorite. Here are step-by-step instructions with pictures:
Step 1:
Start by adding the oat milk to a small pot and heating it over medium-low. Be careful not to let the milk boil, as it can burn.
Step 2:
Next, whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
Step 3:
Once the milk is warm, stir in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar and keep whisking until it melts. Serve immediately, and top with whipped cream, toasted or mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings for an extra treat.
Microwave option:
Pour the oat milk into a microwave-safe mug and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Then, stir in the cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar. Microwave for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, and stir until everything is melted and well combined. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy your creamy oat milk hot chocolate!
Expert recipe tips:
- High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder labeled as "natural" or "unsweetened."
- Heat Gradually: Heat your milk slowly over medium heat to prevent boiling. If the hot chocolate boils, you risk burning the oat milk or chocolate. Stir continuously for even heating.
- Whisking Technique: Use a whisk to blend the cocoa powder and sweetener into the milk. This helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Frothing: For a fancier touch, use a milk frother, steam wand, or hand whisk to create froth on top of the hot chocolate.
- Toppings and Mix-Ins: Get creative with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, grated chocolate, or a dusting of cocoa powder. For a unique twist, experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne.
- Customization: You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sweetener, and you can also play around with the milk-to-cocoa ratio.
- Make Ahead: If you're hosting, prepare a larger batch of hot chocolate ahead of time and reheat it gently when needed. It keeps well for up to 4 days.
Easy ingredient substitutions:
Here is a list of all the ingredient substitutions you can make if you are missing an ingredient or two:
- Oat Milk: You can substitute it with any other milk you prefer, such as almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, cow's milk, or even skim milk.
- Cocoa Powder: Use a hot cocoa mix if you're out of unsweetened cocoa powder. It will add extra sweetness, so adjust your sugar accordingly.
- Sugar: You can substitute coconut sugar, honey, maple syrup, agave syrup, or any other sweetener. For a lower-calorie option, you can also use a sugar-free sweetener.
- Semisweet Chocolate: If you don't have semisweet chocolate, use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Dairy-free chocolate is great for a vegan option.
Is oat milk gluten-free?
Not all oat milk is gluten-free, so checking the packaging before purchasing is important. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they're often processed in facilities that handle wheat, barley, and rye, which can lead to cross-contamination. To ensure the oat milk is safe for a gluten-free diet, look for brands that use gluten-free certified oats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute oat milk with other types of milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, cow's milk, or skim milk. Adjust the sweetness and flavor as needed since different milks can vary in taste and creaminess.
Can I make oat milk hot chocolate in the microwave?
You can heat the oat milk in the microwave instead of the stovetop. If you do this, melt the chocolate in short intervals (around 20 seconds long) and stir well between each interval to prevent overheating and bringing the chocolate and milk.
What's the best type of chocolate to use for homemade hot chocolate?
You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or semisweet chocolate for this oat milk hot cocoa recipe. I don't reccomend white chocolate.
Are there specific types of cocoa powder that work best for hot chocolate?
I recommend using natural unsweetened cocoa powder or Dutch-processed cocoa powder for hot chocolate with oat milk.
Can I make this hot chocolate vegan?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free semisweet chocolate or a vegan chocolate bar and a vegan sweetener if needed. This will keep your hot chocolate vegan-friendly.
Can I add coffee?
If you want to caffeinate this hot chocolate, I recommend adding in 1 -2 espresso shots.
What are some variations of oat milk hot chocolate?
You can customize your oat milk hot chocolate with various additions, such as whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, or a caramel or chocolate syrup drizzle.
Does hot chocolate go bad?
Yes, hot chocolate can go "bad." Look for signs like off odors, mold growth, unusual taste, texture changes, or discoloration to determine if it's spoiled. I reccomend storing homemade hot cocoa for up to 4 days.
If you loved this oat milk recipe, try these chocolate recipes next:
- Oat Milk Chia Pudding
- Oat Milk Pancakes
- Oat Milk Smoothie
- Vegan Baked Oatmeal
- Almond Flour Chocolate Cake
- Protein Hot Chocolate
Did you make this recipe?
If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don't forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!
📖 Recipe
Oat Milk Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 4 cups oat milk, I recommend Oatly
- 3 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 - 5 tablespoon sugar, based on your desired level of sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup semisweet chocolate, chips or cut up bar
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Add oat milk to a small pot and heat over medium-low. Do not let the milk boil, it will burn.
- Add in cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract and gently whisk until combined.
- Once warm, add chocolate chips and continuously whisk until it melts.
- Serve immediately topped with your choice of whipped cream, toasted or mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings.
- Microwave Instructions: Pour the oat milk into a microwave-safe mug and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Then, stir in the cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar. Microwave for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, and stir until everything is melted and well combined. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy your creamy oat milk hot chocolate!
Notes
Nutrition
I only recommend products I love and use myself. In full disclosure, I may receive a small compensation if you purchase a product I recommend. Thank you for supporting Healthful Blondie!
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Andrea says
My favorite!!!! So unbelievably good.