Hey there! With Christmas just around the corner, Iโve got the perfect recipe to bring some festive cheer into your cup. This Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate has all the cozy flavors of the seasonโrich cocoa, a hint of zesty orange, and warm spices that make you feel like youโre wrapped up in a Christmas hug. Itโs super easy to make, quick, and just the thing to sip on while decorating the tree or watching holiday movies. Letโs get festive!
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Why youโll love this recipe
1| Easy and Quick: Takes just 10 minutes to whip up, so itโs perfect when you need a quick festive fix!
2| Festive Flavors: With rich cocoa, warm spices, and a hint of orange, itโs like Christmas in a cup.
3| Dairy-Free Delight: Made with almond milk and coconut cream, itโs creamy and indulgent without any dairy.
4| Feel-Good Ingredients: Sweetened naturally with maple syrup and packed with cozy spices, so you can feel good about each sip.
5| Perfect for Cozy Moments: Whether youโre snuggled up with a good movie or sharing with friends by the fireplace, this drink has all the cozy vibes.
6| Customizable Toppings: Add whipped coconut cream, sprinkle extra cocoa, or top with fresh orange zestโitโs your cup, your way!
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What youโll need to make
Key Ingredients and Why They Make This Recipe Special
- Almond Milk: Creamy and light, almond milk keeps this hot chocolate dairy-free without skimping on richness. Plus, it adds a subtle nutty flavor that goes so well with the spices.
- Fresh Orange Juice: This is where the magic happens! Freshly squeezed orange juice brings a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the cocoa and gives this drink its festive flair.
- Cocoa Powder: The heart of any hot chocolate, good cocoa powder brings a deep, chocolatey flavor thatโs rich and indulgent. Make sure to use unsweetened for the best results!
- Maple Syrup: Naturally sweet and with a hint of caramel, maple syrup keeps this hot chocolate refined sugar-free while adding a cozy, wintery sweetness.
- Cinnamon and Ginger: These warming spices are what give the drink its โspicedโ twist. Cinnamon adds warmth, while ginger adds a bit of zingโboth perfect for that holiday feel.
- Whipped Coconut Cream: The finishing touch! This dairy-free topping makes each sip extra indulgent and adds a smooth, creamy layer. A sprinkle of orange zest and a dusting of cocoa powder make it even more festive.
Each ingredient here brings a unique flavor that, together, make this hot chocolate the ultimate cozy treat!
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Ingredients: Serves 4 |
---|
โ 3 cups (720ml) almond milk, unsweetened |
โ 1 cup (240ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed |
โ 4 tbsp cocoa powder, unsweetened |
โ 4 tbsp maple syrup |
โ 1 tsp ground cinnamon |
โ 1/2 tsp ground ginger |
โ pinch of salt |
To Garnish |
โ 8 tbsp whipped coconut cream |
โ 1/2 tsp cocoa powder |
โ 1 tsp orange zest |
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What youโll need to do
Time required: 10 min
1| Pour the almond milk and freshly squeezed orange juice into a small pot and set it over medium-low heat. Now, add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, and just a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir until that cocoa powder melts right in and everything looks nice and smooth!
2| Pour this cozy drink into your favorite mugs, and top each with a generous spoonful of whipped coconut cream. Sprinkle a little extra cocoa powder and a dash of orange zest on top for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy!

Glycemic Index: Low (42) Glycemic Load: Moderate (11)
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Recipe Swaps & Creative Tweaks
Here are some fun substitution and improvisation ideas for your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate recipe:
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Substitutions:
Milk Alternatives:
- Use oat milk or coconut milk instead of almond milk for a different flavor profile and creaminess.
- For a nut-free option, try soy milk or rice milk.
Sweeteners:
- Swap maple syrup for agave nectar, honey (if not vegan), or coconut sugar for a different sweetness level.
- You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a low-calorie option.
Cocoa Powder:
- If you want a different chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a richer taste.
- For a twist, consider using a flavored cocoa powder, like mint or white chocolate.
Citrus:
- Use lemon juice or lime juice instead of orange juice for a zesty twist.
- You can also experiment with other citrus fruits like grapefruit or tangerine.
Spices:
- If you donโt have ground ginger, try using fresh ginger for a more intense flavor, just remember to adjust the amount.
- Add nutmeg or cardamom for a unique spin on the spice blend.
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Improvisation Ideas:
Add a Kick:
- For an adult version, add a splash of your favorite liqueur like orange liqueur (e.g., Grand Marnier) or bourbon for a warming kick.
Flavor Infusion:
- Infuse the almond milk with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves while heating for an extra layer of flavor.
Extra Toppings:
- Experiment with toppings like crushed peppermint candies, mini marshmallows, or a drizzle of caramel for a fun twist.
Chili Hot Chocolate:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness and warmth of the drink.
Vegan Whipped Topping:
- If you want a different whipped topping, try using store-bought vegan whipped cream or make your own with aquafaba (chickpea brine) for a light and airy alternative.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
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Some useful tips for success
Here are some handy tips to make your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate even better:
1| Choose Quality Cocoa: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor. The better the cocoa, the richer your hot chocolate will be!
2| Fresh Juice is Key: Always opt for freshly squeezed orange juice. It adds a bright, vibrant flavor that bottled juice just canโt match.
3| Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go! Depending on your preference and the sweetness of the orange juice, you might want to adjust the amount of maple syrup.
4| Use a Whisk: For a super smooth texture, use a whisk to combine the ingredients when heating. It helps dissolve the cocoa powder and spices evenly.
5| Keep it Warm: If youโre making this for a group, keep the hot chocolate warm in a slow cooker or on very low heat to prevent it from cooling down too quickly.
6| Experiment with Spices: Donโt be afraid to play around with the spices! A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice can elevate the flavor even more.
7| Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes! Besides whipped coconut cream and cocoa powder, try adding chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
8| Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
9| Pair with Treats: This hot chocolate pairs perfectly with holiday cookies, biscotti, or even a slice of gingerbread. Enjoy it as a treat to complement your cozy drink!
10| Make it Ahead: You can prepare the base of the hot chocolate ahead of time and simply heat it up when youโre ready to serve. Just add the whipped coconut cream and garnishes right before serving!
With these tips, youโll be set for a delicious and festive experience with your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate! Enjoy!
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Some serving suggestions
Here are some fun and festive serving ideas for your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate:
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Mug Presentation:
- Serve in festive holiday mugs or mismatched vintage cups for a cozy, homey feel. You can also use clear glass mugs to show off the creamy texture and colorful toppings.
Garnish Bar:
- Set up a garnish bar with whipped coconut cream, cocoa powder, orange zest, crushed peppermint, and sprinkles. Let everyone customize their own hot chocolate!
Sipping Straws:
- Use colorful or themed paper straws to add a playful touch. You could even find striped ones to match the festive vibe.
Plate of Treats:
- Serve alongside a plate of holiday cookies, brownies, or gingerbread men for a delightful pairing. It makes for a cozy snack while enjoying the drink!
Chocolate Drizzle:
- Drizzle some melted dark chocolate or chocolate syrup on top of the whipped coconut cream for an extra indulgent look and flavor.
Spiced Rim:
- Rim the mugs with a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon for a sweet and spicy twist before pouring in the hot chocolate.
Mini Marshmallow Skewers:
- Create mini marshmallow skewers by threading a few marshmallows onto a toothpick or small skewer. Dip them in chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or coconut for extra flair.
Themed Coasters:
- Use holiday-themed coasters or even homemade ones decorated with festive designs to make your table setting feel extra special.
Warm Up Station:
- For a gathering, set up a hot chocolate station where guests can serve themselves. Include a slow cooker to keep the hot chocolate warm and offer various toppings.
To-Go Cups:
- If youโre on the go or heading to a gathering, serve the hot chocolate in insulated to-go cups with lids. Add a festive ribbon or tag for a personal touch!
These serving ideas will not only enhance the experience but also make your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate a delightful centerpiece for any holiday gathering! Enjoy!
Some storage suggestions
Here are some great storage options for your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate:
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Refrigerator:
- Airtight Container: Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before reheating!
- Mason Jars: Use mason jars for easy storage. Theyโre great for portioning out individual servings and can be sealed tightly.
Freezer:
- Ice Cube Trays: Pour leftover hot chocolate into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag. You can use them to make quick hot chocolate drinks by blending with warm milk later!
- Freezer-Safe Containers: If you have a larger batch, store it in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat when youโre ready to enjoy!
Thermal Carafe:
- For gatherings, keep your hot chocolate warm in a thermal carafe. Itโll stay warm for hours and is perfect for serving to guests throughout the day.
Slow Cooker:
- If youโre serving a crowd, keep your hot chocolate warm in a slow cooker. This way, you can easily refill cups without worrying about reheating.
To-Go Cups:
- For those busy days, store hot chocolate in insulated to-go cups. These are great for taking your drink on the road or to holiday parties.
Labeling:
- If youโre storing hot chocolate in jars or containers, consider labeling them with the date. This way, you can keep track of freshness and ensure you enjoy it at its best!
With these storage options, you can easily save and enjoy your Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate whenever the craving hits!
And there you have itโyour own Christmas-spiced hot chocolate to sip and savor! I hope this little cup of joy adds warmth and a bit of magic to your holiday season. Top it with whipped coconut cream, a sprinkle of cocoa, and a bit of orange zest, and youโre set for a festive treat. Hereโs to cozy nights, holiday lights, and plenty of cheer. Merry Christmas and enjoy every sip!
Recipe Card
Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate โ Christmas Treat
Warm up your holidays with this Orange Spiced Hot Chocolate! ๐ซ A creamy mix of cocoa, zesty orange, and cinnamon, this easy recipe brings Christmas cheer to every cup. Perfect for cozying up on a cold winter night! ๐

Ingredients
To garnish
Instructions
-
Step 1:
Place the almond milk and orange juice into a small pot, over a medium/low heat. Add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger and salt, and stir until the cocoa has completely dissolved.
-
Step 2:
Serve in cups topped with coconut cream, cocoa powder and orange zest.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 137kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4g7%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.