3 Easy Hot Cocoa Recipes for Busy Parents

“Nice memories are like chocolate: you can't survive on them alone, but they make life sweeter.” 

We are so close to spring... so close. I don't know where you guys live, but here in Vancouver, it still feels a bit like winter. Although I'm currently wishing for some warm temps and hot sun, might as well enjoy the cozy feeling of winter while it lasts, right? You should definitely spend some time outdoors regardless of the weather...buuuuuuuuut there's no harm in small indulgences indoors either. The problem is this: in between making sure your kids are alive, making sure the house is in order, work and everything in between, you don't have the time to indulge.

Well, I'm pretty sure that everyone likes chocolate (almost everyone at least)... so I searched around and found some hot chocolate recipes for you to whip up in a jiffy. There are different options available for the amount of time you have and your dietary preferences/restrictions, so EVERYBODY can appreciate a little cocoa in their life: 

 1. Healthy Dairy-free Hot Chocolate | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Serves: 1

This healthier option of hot cocoa only needs 4 ingredients and only takes a few minutes to prepare. It's perfect if you're on the run or if you simply don't have much time. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond milk 
• 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

• Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over high heat, using a whisk to break any clumps
• Keep stirring until smooth and piping hot, then pour into a mug and serve warm
• Top with dairy-free whipped cream and shaved chocolate, if desired

Original recipe can be found here.

 2. Creamy Hot Cocoa | Prep Time: 7 minutes | Serves: 4

Have a few more minutes on your hands? Or want to make this a family activity? This recipe has a bit more creamy oomph if you have the extra time to spare. 

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups milk (or dairy-free substitute)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup boiling water
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup half-and-half cream (or dairy-free substitute)
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 1 pinch salt 

Instructions

• Combine the cocoa, sugar and pinch of salt in a saucepan and blend in the boiling water
• Bring this mixture to an easy boil while you stir, then simmer and stir for about 2 minutes (watch the water and make sure it doesn't scorch)
• Stir in 3 1/2 cups of milk and heat until very hot, but do not boil!
• Remove from heat and add vanilla
• Divide between 4 mugs
• Add the cream to the mugs of cocoa to cool it to drinking temperature

Original recipe can be found here.

3. Tia Mowry's Hot Chocolate Recipes 

If reading directions aren't your thing - I got you. Click below to watch Tia Mowry (does anyone remember her from Sister Sister!?)'s video tutorial on how to make hot chocolate 3 ways. These include gingerbread hot chocolate, peppermint hot chocolate, and her "fluffernutter" (marshmallow & peanut butter) chocolate. It might take more time, but they're super fun and not to mention very instagrammable for you blogger mommies out there.

Hope you get to treat yourself with these quick and yummy recipes. Use them to enjoy your much-needed alone time or turn into a fun activity with your kids. Tips: You can get them to help you measure ingredients or decorate with some toppings after everything is all set. 

If you happen to take any pictures, we would love to see it. Tag us on Instagram or let us know on Facebook. 

Happy drinking! xoxo

Image source: Unsplash