Easy Spiced Hot Chocolate Recipe(For Christmas Morning)

Holiday Spiced Hot Chocolate

This Holiday Spiced Hot Chocolate is everything you want in a festive winter drink. It’s rich, comforting, gently sweet, and filled with warm Christmas spices that make your whole kitchen smell incredible.

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There’s something magical about curling up on a chilly winter evening with a warm mug of cocoa in your hands.

The house fills with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, instantly evoking memories of holiday traditions, cozy blankets, and twinkling light.

This spiced hot chocolate is the perfect way to take a break from all the business of the holidays, or even a calm moment during the holiday merrymaking.

This Holiday Spiced Hot Cocoa brings all that magic into a healthy, nourishing version of the classic treat.

Made with antioxidant-rich cacao, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and paired with a cozy blend of warming spices, it’s a drink that feels indulgent while still supporting your wellness goals.

Health Benefits of This Holiday Spiced Chocolate

Cacao: Research shows that cacao is packed with antioxidants and flavonoids, and cacao can help support heart health, mood, and even energy levels. It’s the perfect base for a winter treat that feels indulgent without the guilt.

Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Ginger: These classic Christmas spices are more than aromatic—they have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Cinnamon helps balance blood sugar, ginger supports digestion, and nutmeg adds a gentle calming effect, making your cocoa both cozy and nourishing.

Almond Milk: Using unsweetened almond milk keeps this drink light and dairy-free while adding vitamin E and healthy fats. It’s creamy enough to feel indulgent but gentle on your stomach.

Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that adds just the right touch of sweetness without refined sugar, letting the flavors of cacao and holiday spices shine.

This combination makes Holiday Spiced Hot Cocoa a perfect winter ritual: a comforting, festive drink that supports your body while filling your senses with the joys of the season.

This spiced holiday hot chocolate is a healthier twist on classic hot chocolate, made with antioxidant-rich cacao, creamy non-dairy milk, and a cozy blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Perfect for sipping during tree decorating, gift wrapping, or a quiet December evening by the fireplace.

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Spiced Hot Chocolate

Filled with warm Christmas spices
Naturally sweetened and dairy-free
Ready in minutes
Cozy and comforting without being heavy
Easy to customize for any occasion

Ingredients

1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk you love)
1 ½ tablespoons raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
1–2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of nutmeg
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: a tiny pinch of cloves or allspice for extra holiday warmth

Instructions

Warm the almond milk over medium heat until steaming.
Whisk in the cacao powder until smooth.
Add the maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Taste and adjust sweetness or spice levels.
Pour into a cozy mug and enjoy immediately.

Variations

Peppermint Holiday Chocolate: Add one drop of peppermint extract for a North-Pole-meets-spice twist.
Gingerbread Cocoa: Increase ginger slightly and add a tiny pinch of cloves.
Orange Spice Cocoa: Add ½ teaspoon orange zest for a citrus-chocolate holiday blend.
Extra Creamy: Use half almond milk and half oat milk or swirl in a spoonful of coconut cream.

Substitutions

Milk: Any milk works oat milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, or dairy milk.
Sweetener: Replace maple syrup with honey, date syrup, or coconut sugar.
Spices: Use a premade “pumpkin pie spice” blend if you want something quick and convenient.

Tips & Tricks

Warm the milk slowly so everything stays silky and smooth.
Whisk as you sprinkle in the cacao to avoid clumps.
Add sweetener gradually; cacao is bold, but spices deepen the flavor beautifully.
A cinnamon stick, shaved chocolate, or a dusting of nutmeg makes the presentation feel extra festive.