Honey-Sweetened Hot Cocoa

When the weather turns chilly, nothing feels quite as comforting as wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of hot cocoa. But if you’re looking to skip refined sugar—or just want a deeper, more natural sweetness—this honey-sweetened hot cocoa is a dream.

Ingredients

Serves 2

2 cups milk (dairy or your favorite non-dairy option)
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2–3 tbsp Champlain Valley honey (adjust to taste)
1–2 tbsp dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (optional, but amazing)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Optional toppings: whipped cream, cinnamon, marshmallows, shaved chocolate

Directions

1. Warm the milk

In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium-low until hot but not boiling.

2. Whisk in the cocoa

Add cocoa powder and whisk vigorously until fully dissolved.
(Tip: If the cocoa clumps, mix it first with a tablespoon of warm milk to create a smooth paste.)

3. Add chocolate & honey

Stir in chocolate chips (if using) until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and mix in the honey, vanilla, and sea salt.

4. Taste & adjust

Add more honey if you like it sweeter or more cocoa for extra richness.

5. Serve warm

Pour into your favorite mug, top with something festive, and enjoy!

Festive Variations🎄

Peppermint Hot Cocoa: Add a drop of peppermint extract or stir with a candy cane.
Gingerbread Cocoa: Add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Mexican-Style Cocoa: Add cinnamon and a tiny pinch of cayenne.
Salted Honey Cocoa: Drizzle honey on top and sprinkle flaky sea salt.