When winter arrives, my mind narrows down to just two obsessions: oversized fluffy coats and a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Even on weeks I didn't actually drink any, I craved it constantly and kept planning to make a batch. Because I'm following a dairy-free diet due to food sensitivities, I needed to create a version that was still decadent and satisfying. So I set out to craft the ultimate dairy-free spiked hot chocolate—and I believe I succeeded! This recipe makes one serving.
Dairy-Free Spiked Hot Chocolate
- 1 cup non-dairy milk (I prefer macadamia nut milk)
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped dairy-free dark chocolate
- 1–2 tablespoons rum (adjust based on how strong you want it)
- 1–2 tablespoons sweetened condensed coconut milk
- In a small saucepan, gently warm your non-dairy milk—do not let it boil, just bring it to a comfortable heat. While it heats, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces, then stir it into the warm milk.
- Let the warmth melt the chocolate, whisking continuously until everything is fully combined. Taste the mixture; if you'd like a deeper chocolate flavor, add more chopped chocolate and let it melt.
- Stir in the condensed coconut milk until it dissolves completely, then taste and adjust the amount to your liking. Finally, add the dark rum according to your preference.
Now for the secret twist! My hidden ingredient here is sweetened condensed coconut milk, which brings extra sweetness and creates a thicker, creamier texture. Lately I've been adding it to everything—even my coffee—so I expect it will become a pantry staple. If you don't have it on hand, your hot chocolate will still be delicious, but this really elevates it, in my opinion. Add it to the warm mixture, stir until dissolved, and taste to adjust. You might want less if your chocolate is already quite sweet, or more if you used a low-sugar or unsweetened bar. Last—but certainly not least—stir in your dark rum to taste. For an extra layer, look for a rum with complementary flavors; I found one with hints of molasses and maple, and it pairs beautifully with the hot chocolate. Wow. That. Looks. Delicious. You can also toss in some marshmallows (vegan ones if needed), slip into your pajamas, and curl up on the couch—to me, that's the peak of winter coziness. I hope you'll be enjoying this hot chocolate in your own home soon! xo, Laura
Credits: Author and photography by Laura Gummerman. Photos edited using A Color Story Desktop.
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