Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa is a vibrant, velvety-smooth drink that’s like a soothing hug in a mug. With just the right amount of warmth from turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, plus the rich depth of cocoa, it’s perfect for chilly afternoons or relaxing evenings. Each sip is creamy and subtly spicy, offering that classic hot chocolate comfort with a golden twist. Whether you need a nourishing pick-me-up or want something cozy to share, this Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa is destined to become your go-to treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, yet every ingredient plays a key role in creating the creamy, deeply flavored cup you’ll crave again and again. Each one builds the signature taste, color, and comforting texture that makes Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa so special.
- Coconut milk: Opt for unsweetened vanilla coconut milk for a lush base that’s both creamy and dairy-free.
- Cocoa powder: Adds a rich, chocolatey depth to balance the spices—choose your favorite high-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Ground turmeric: Delivers that iconic golden glow and a subtle earthy complexity, plus bonus anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Ground ginger: Brings gentle warmth and zing, perfectly rounding out the spice blend.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses a sweet, aromatic note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Black pepper & ground nutmeg: A tiny pinch of each is all you need to enhance the other spices and add a hint of cozy spice.
- Honey (or maple syrup): Naturally sweetens the drink—swap for maple syrup to keep it vegan without sacrificing sweetness.
- Coconut oil: Adds silkiness and a subtle richness, making each sip even more luxurious.
How to Make Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa
Step 1: Warm the Coconut Milk
Start by pouring your coconut milk into a medium saucepan. Warm it gently over medium heat just until it reaches a light simmer—think gentle steam, not a rolling boil. This coaxes out the flavors without scalding the milk, ensuring that creamy base stays smooth.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients and Sweetener
Sprinkle in the cocoa powder, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and nutmeg directly into the warmed milk. Then add your choice of honey or maple syrup. This is the moment everything comes together—watch as those golden swirls mingle with deep chocolate!
Step 3: Whisk or Blend for Silkiness
Drop in the coconut oil and grab a whisk or handheld immersion blender. Whisk vigorously, or blend for about 30 seconds, until all the spices are dissolved and the cocoa is frothy and beautifully combined. The coconut oil will add extra shine and luxurious texture.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Pour your Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa into your favorite mugs. For extra decadence, top with a swirl of non-dairy whipped topping and a sprinkle of grated dark chocolate—totally optional, but absolutely worth it if you’re feeling fancy!
How to Serve Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa
Garnishes
Dress up your mugs of Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa by spooning on a cloud of non-dairy whipped topping, followed by a generous dusting of grated dark chocolate or a sprinkle of cinnamon. For an even warmer vibe, try a few golden curls of orange zest or a cinnamon stick for stirring—simple touches that make each sip feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair a steamy cup of Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa with lightly sweet treats like almond biscotti, cinnamon toast, or even a slice of banana bread. These pairings soak up the cozy flavors and make your mug feel like the centerpiece of an indulgent little snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or self-care nights, serve Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa in clear glass mugs to really show off its golden color. Try a hot cocoa bar with toppings like coconut flakes, crushed pistachios, or spiced honey. You could even pour smaller servings into espresso cups for an adorable party treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or jar. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors might intensify a bit overnight, making the second cup just as delicious—if not better!
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze leftover Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa in ice cube trays for up to one month. Simply pop a cube or two into hot milk for a quick mug, or blend them into smoothies for an instant spiced chocolate treat.
Reheating
To reheat, pour your refrigerated Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa into a saucepan and warm gently over low-medium heat while whisking. Or, heat in a microwave-safe mug for 30-second bursts, stirring well between each round. If it thickens, just add a splash more coconut milk.
FAQs
Can I use a different non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or soy milk all work nicely in Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa—the flavor and creaminess will change slightly depending on your choice, but the end result will be just as comforting.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
Yes! This cozy beverage is caffeine-free and mild enough for kids, making it a fun and nutritious twist on classic hot cocoa. Just make sure to let it cool a bit before serving.
How can I make it extra foamy?
An immersion blender is your best friend for maximum froth! Blend vigorously right before serving, or use a handheld milk frother for café-style bubbles.
Can I adjust the spice levels?
Of course! Feel free to tweak the amounts of turmeric, ginger, or even cinnamon—Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa is easily customizable, so you can make it as bold or as mellow as you like.
What’s the best way to sweeten if I want it sugar-free?
Try a few drops of stevia or monk fruit extract instead of honey or maple syrup. Start with a little and taste as you go, since these natural sweeteners can be quite potent.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring a little golden magic into your routine, Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa is your answer. Gather your ingredients, savor the soothing aroma, and treat yourself to this colorful, comforting drink. I can’t wait for you and your loved ones to give this recipe a try—your mug (and your mood) will thank you!
PrintSpiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa Recipe
Indulge in a cozy and nutritious drink with this Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa recipe. The warm blend of turmeric, cocoa, and spices in creamy coconut milk makes for a comforting treat.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Spiced Golden Milk Hot Cocoa:
- 16 ounces unsweetened vanilla coconut milk (we like So Delicious)
- 1 Tbsp. + 1 tsp. cocoa powder
- 3/4 tsp. ground turmeric
- 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- Tiny pinch of black pepper & ground nutmeg
- 2 tsp. honey (substitute maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 2–3 tsp. coconut oil
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, warm coconut just to the point of a light simmer. Add cocoa, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, pepper, honey or maple syrup, and coconut oil.
- Whisk vigorously or use a handheld immersion blender to combine.
- Top with optional non-dairy whipped topping and a sprinkling of grated dark chocolate, if desired.
Notes
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- If you wish to republish this recipe, please rewrite the recipe in your own unique words and link back to the source recipe here on The Real Food Dietitians. Thank you!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 recipe
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
