If you’ve been searching for a dairy free hot chocolate mix that’s creamy, rich, and actually tastes like the classic hot cocoa you grew up with, this is the one! It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and so delicious no one will guess it’s dairy-free—or that it’s made with better-for-you ingredients.
With just three simple ingredients, you can mix up a cozy mug of hot chocolate in minutes. And unlike most store-bought packets, this hot cocoa mix recipe without dry milk is completely vegan, naturally gluten-free, and easy to customize for your family.
Even better? Whether you avoid dairy or just want a cleaner option, this dairy free hot chocolate tastes so creamy and smooth that my whole family gives it two thumbs up… even the ones who aren’t dairy-free. 😉
Looking for a more traditional hot chocolate recipe instead of a mix? I’ve got you covered! Check out my hot chocolate recipe or indulge in this fantastically creamy peanut butter hot chocolate.
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick video tutorial showing exactly how to make this dairy free hot chocolate mix. It walks you through the simple steps so you can whip up your own batch in just a few minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix
Let’s be honest, there’s something so comforting about a warm mug of cocoa! This version delivers all the creaminess and sweetness you want—without any dairy at all. It’s simple, delicious, and a staple you’ll want to keep in your pantry all winter long.
Here’s why this dairy free hot chocolate mix is my go-to recipe:
- Only three ingredients. No fillers, no additives, no hard-to-pronounce ingredients.
- Perfectly creamy. Thanks to one smart swap, it tastes just as rich as traditional mixes.
- Kid-approved. My kids love this just as much as the sugary store-bought packets.
- Budget-friendly. Much cheaper than buying specialty dairy-free cocoa mixes.
- Easy to customize. Add flavors like peppermint, cinnamon, or vanilla to make it your own.
- Mixes instantly. Just add hot water—no need for dairy-free milk unless you want it extra rich.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan. Ideal for anyone avoiding dairy or looking for a cleaner option.
- Travel-friendly. Traveling for the holidays? Pack a jar of hot chocolate mix for the road! Fun fact: the entire reason I created this recipe was for my son (who can’t have dairy) to take some with him to snow camp!
Whether you enjoy it on snowy mornings, pack it for trips, or keep a jar on hand for cravings, this mix is one of those recipes you’ll reach for over and over again.
The Secret Ingredient That Makes It Creamy
The magic behind this dairy free hot chocolate mix is one simple ingredient: coconut milk powder. Once I discovered it, everything clicked. It gives you that silky, creamy texture you normally get from dry milk in traditional cocoa packets—just without any dairy.
Coconut milk powder blends beautifully into hot water, creating a rich, smooth mug of cocoa that tastes far more indulgent than it actually is. And don’t worry: it doesn’t leave your drink tasting like coconut. It simply adds the creaminess that every good cocoa mix needs.
Best of all, using coconut milk powder means you can make a true hot cocoa mix recipe without dry milk that still tastes like the classic winter treat everyone loves. Just scoop, add hot water, and enjoy a cup of perfectly chocolatey, dairy-free hot cocoa.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need three simple pantry staples to make this dairy free hot chocolate mix. Each one adds flavor, sweetness, or that perfect creamy texture.
- Cocoa powder – Unsweetened and naturally dairy-free. This is the base that gives your cocoa its rich chocolate flavor.
- Coconut milk powder – The secret ingredient that replaces dry milk and makes your hot cocoa smooth and creamy without any dairy.
- Coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener – Both keep the mix refined-sugar-free. Coconut sugar adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness, while monk fruit makes this recipe keto-friendly.
That’s it! Three ingredients, endlessly customizable, and so easy to keep on hand.
How to Make Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix
Making your own mix is incredibly quick—just a couple of minutes and you’re done.
- Combine the ingredients. Sift all three ingredients into a mixing bowl to remove any lumps, then whisk until everything is evenly blended.
- Use it like instant cocoa. Add about 2 tablespoons of the hot cocoa mix to 1 cup of hot water. Stir well and adjust the amount of mix depending on how rich you like your cocoa.
You can also mix it with warmed almond milk or coconut milk for an extra creamy mug, but it’s delicious with just hot water.
How to Store Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
One of the best parts about this dairy free hot chocolate mix is how easy it is to store. Make a batch once, and you’ll have instant hot cocoa ready anytime you need a cozy treat.
Because this mix is made from dry ingredients, it stays fresh for several months when stored properly. Heres how:
Use an airtight container.
A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (like a mason jar) keeps the mix fresh and clump-free.
Keep it in a cool, dry place.
Store it in your pantry, away from heat and humidity.
Make single-serve packets for travel.
Scoop one or two tablespoons of the mix into small snack-sized bags or these popsicle bags for easy pouring. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, camping trips, snow days, or sending with kids to school or camp.
Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Hot Chocolate Mix
This recipe is simple, but these easy tips will help you get the richest, creamiest cup every time.
Use a natural sweetener you love.
Coconut sugar gives the mix a warm, caramel-like flavor. For a refined sugar–free or keto option, monk fruit sweetener works beautifully and tastes just as sweet.
Make it even creamier with dairy-free milk.
The mix is designed to taste amazing with just hot water, but if you want a richer mug of cocoa, try warming almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk and stirring the mix into that instead.
Adjust the chocolate strength.
Everyone has a different “perfect” cocoa level. Add a little more mix for extra bold chocolate flavor—or use less for a lighter, more kid-friendly cup.
Let kids make their own.
This recipe was created for my dairy-free children, and all four kids in our house give it two thumbs up. Even my husband (who’s definitely not dairy-free) admitted he wouldn’t have guessed this was homemade or dairy-free!
This sounds weird – but it is a compliment.
Try it iced.
Blend ice, a splash of dairy-free milk, and a spoonful of the mix for a frappuccino-style treat that tastes like a chocolate milkshake. Yum!
Fun Add-Ins and Flavor Variations
This dairy free hot chocolate mix is delicious all on its own, but it’s also easy to customize. Try one of these simple add-ins to change up the flavor or make your mug feel extra special.
- Vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla deepens the chocolate flavor and adds a cozy sweetness.
- Cinnamon – A sprinkle on top gives your cocoa a warm, spiced twist—perfect for winter nights.
- Marshmallows – Regular or vegan mini marshmallows are always a fun addition (just note they add extra sugar).
- Chocolate chips – Stir in a spoonful of dark chocolate chips for a richer, melt-in-your-mouth mug.
- Whipped cream – Use your favorite dairy-free whipped topping or make your own for a dessert-like treat.
- Peppermint – A drop of peppermint extract or a crushed candy cane turns this into a festive peppermint hot chocolate. But, I actually make my own peppermint hot chocolate a slightly different way – here’s my dairy free peppermint hot chocolate recipe.
- Mocha twist – Add a teaspoon of instant coffee for a cozy mocha-style drink.
Play with combinations until you find your family’s favorite version—there’s no wrong way to enjoy homemade cocoa. 😉
FAQs about hot chocolate mix
Here are some questions people often ask about making dairy-free hot chocolate mix.
Does coconut milk powder make it taste like coconut?
The answer to this can vary based on what brand you use, but in general you can taste a slight coconut flavor and some natural sweetness. However, the cocoa powder does a good job of overpowering it!
I love coconut, so I’m probably not the best person to ask about the flavor, but here’s a helpful comment from a reader:
Actually it does work for someone so doesn’t like coconut. My sister hates coconut. I made this cocoa for her and didn’t tell her about coconut milk powder. I had to put 3 TBSP of mix in one cup. We used monkeying sweetener. However I add one packet of Trivia also. It tastes pretty darn good.
Is hot chocolate mix gluten-free?
Yes—this homemade version is naturally gluten-free as long as all three ingredients are certified gluten-free. If you buy store-bought packets, always check the label, since some mixes can contain hidden gluten or cross-contamination risks.
Are hot cocoa packets dairy-free?
Unless it says otherwise, most types of hot cocoa packets contain dried milk powder. Almost all hot chocolate mix that you can buy at the store includes some sort of dairy ingredients in them.
Is Nestle hot chocolate vegan?
No, Nestle hot chocolate is not vegan. It is made with milk ingredients, which is an animal by-product. If you want a vegan hot cocoa recipe, I suggest printing this recipe out and making it at home.
It’s really simple and tastes sweet and rich – without any animal products in it at all! It’s made with all plant-based ingredients.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Yes—this mix scales beautifully. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container so it stays fresh for months.
Enjoy!
More Dairy-Free Chocolate Recipes
- GF Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Hot Cocoa Brownies (Paleo + Dairy-Free)
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Easy Homemade Paleo Mint Dark Chocolate
- Guilt-Free Chocolate Mousse
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix (Dairy-Free)
This hot cocoa mix powder in a jar takes just minutes to make and is so creamy and delicious, it’s the perfect guilt-free treat for your chocolate cravings
- Prep Time: 2 mins
- Total Time: 2 mins
- Yield: approx 16 servings
- Category: beverage
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup coconut milk powder
- 1 cup coconut sugar or a keto-friendly sweetener such as this monkfruit
Instructions
- Sift all three ingredients together and whisk together.
- Add 2 about Tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to one cup of water. (You can add more or less cocoa mix if you prefer.) Stir well and enjoy!
Notes
Store the cocoa mix in a sealed container or ziploc baggie for on-the-go use.
Tracy says
Thanks!
Janise says
Do you taste the coconut? (Would it work for someone who doesn’t care for coconut?)
Erika says
You probably would. Personally, I LOVE coconut and can’t get enough of it so I’m probably not the best one to ask!
Madison says
I am wondering the same, I have a coconut “allergy” (I say that with quotes because it’s never been medically confirmed, but it makes me sick. I wonder what I could use instead of coconut
Erika says
Hi Madison, can you have regular milk? You could use regular powdered milk and brown sugar instead of coconut milk powder and coconut sugar. Otherwise, I’m not sure. I don’t think there’s currently an almond milk powder available.
Melissa says
There is soy milk powder, which I plan to try because I can’t have coconut either (as much as I love it). Worth a try!
Marie says
Actually it does work for someone so doesn’t like coconut. My sister hates coconut. I made this cocoa for her and didn’t tell her about coconut milk powder. I had to put 3 TBSP of mix in one cup. We used monkeying sweetener. However I add one packet of Trivia also. It tastes pretty darn good
Marie says
That was was monkfruit sweetener.
Kayla says
Have you tried this in a glass of cold soy or almond milk? Would it work for that? I have a 16 month old who is allergic to milk, and we had to stop giving her her FAVORITE chocolate milk bc it has dairy in it. Thanks love!
Sheena says
Silk makes an amazing chocolate milk if you haven’t figured that out yet. ? You can find chocolate milk in soy and almond as well as cashew, and coconut. Safeway has started to carry quite a few dairy free foods. If she likes Mac and cheese you should check out Daiya brand. It’s next to the normal Mac and cheese in the pasta aisle. Daiya makes a pretty good cheese replacement product. Check them out.
Hema says
Try putting some organic vanilla powder it may take off the little coconut flavour.
tiffany pezzulo says
Thanks this looks great! Was looking for something to bring up to the ski hill where we could just add hot water (for my 5 year old with eosinophilic esophagitis and food allergies!).
Shinika says
This is amazing! I was getting freaked out by the oily film that always floated to the top of my store bought hot chocolate…why??? This recipe is chocolately and amazing! And no oil sheen!
Erika says
Sometimes the processed store stuff is really gross! I’m glad you loved this recipe, Shinika!
Erika says
I’m so glad you loved it, Shinka!
Sarah says
This was really good! Thanks
Erika says
I’m glad you liked it!
Tishy says
Can I add normal sugar as nowhere near me sells coconut sugar
Erika says
Yes, absolutely.
Meg says
If using regular sugar, what would you recommend? Granulated? Powdered? And how much?
Erika says
Hi Meg, if you used regular sugar, I’d try white granulated sugar and probably do 1 cup. You might have to play around with it, but it should sub fairly easily.
Whitney says
I have been searching on google for a hot cocoa mix that s dairy and gluten free ! All the ones I was seeing were with almond milk .I want one that’s good with water ! Thank you will be trying this recipe out !
Tegan says
Love it! On a gluten, dairy and low fodmap food change and couldn’t have regular chocolate powders.
1 scoop of this recipe in a cup is enough. Thanks for sharing!
Julie says
Thank you! I have been making hot cocoa mix with powdered soy milk, but I would rather use coconut! This was easy and yummy.
Mayumi says
I tried this recipe immediately after I pinned on Pinterest and I absolutely loved it! I’ve been looking for a perfect hot cocoa recipe for so long, thank you for sharing this one ❤️
Erika says
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Mayumi!
Brenda Baughman says
This is a really great recipe! So convenient! I used cacao for the cocoa powder for a nutrition boost & added a dash of sea salt. Thanks so much!!
Erika says
I’m so glad you enjoyed the cocoa, Brenda. Great additions!
Tasha says
Question, I’m doing all my niece/nephews mugs with hot chocolate powder as part of a Christmas hamper, my youngest nephew will be 14 months but he is allergic to milk and has to have a special formula prescribed from the doctors, do you think this could be added to his milk for a little christmas treat? don’t want a poorly 14 month old for Christmas lol 🙅 thanks in advance
Erika says
Hi Tasha, I’m sure this would work fine in a special formula. You might want to check with his mom &/or doctor just to be safe, but this should mix well with most milk-substitutes. Your nieces and nephews are lucky to have such a fun, caring aunt!
Thimgan Hayden says
“Remember that no holiday craft time is complete without a good hot or cold drink!
Living Well Mom has come up with a dairy-free hot chocolate mix for her son with dietary restrictions that uses coconut milk instead of cow milk. It sounds delicious!
We mentioned you and linked in our recent blog post here: https://www.eternalcreation.com/blogs/news/4-easy-ways-to-make-your-christmas-holiday-season-more-ethical-fun
Thank you!
I’m going to make this for sure!
Cheers,
Thimgan
Sue says
Erika, is there a brand of powdered coconut milk you can recommend?
Erika says
Hi Sue, yes this is the one we use: https://amzn.to/2r7ksmI (my affiliate link)
Jennifer says
I made this to keep in the office as a winter compliment to herbal teas. As a trial, I shared it at a reiki talk I did yesterday and everyone loves it! I’m sharing the post with the group now by request. Thank for for sharing such a wonderful creation!!
Erika says
I’m glad you enjoyed this, Jennifer! Thanks for sharing!
Kellea says
Hi! Is there a “single serve” version of this? I want to test it out before making a huge batch.
Tiffani says
This recipe is so amazing!! I finally have a vegan hot chocolate recipe that’s actually good….Whew!! Thank you so much!!!
Erika says
I’m so glad you loved it, Tiffani! Thanks for telling me. 🙂
Chelsey Holmquist says
This tastes like a brownie in drink form! I’ve missed hot cocoa so much because of our milk allergies, so I was so excited to try this! Thank you!
Erika says
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Chelsey!
Brenda says
You could do 1/2 tablespoon cocoa powder, 3/4 tablespoon coconut milk powder, & 1 tablespoon coconut sugar. That equals 2 1/4 tablespoons of mix, so I would try adding 2/3-3/4 cup hot water. The proportions should be right for the mix, you’ll just have to adjust the amount of water.
Arianne says
This sounds delicious! I’m planning a baby shower around Christmas time and have thought about doing a hot cocoa bar! I don’t do dairy and neither does the mom to be so this recipe sounds perfect! Can I use canned coconut milk instead of the powder? We will be drinking it at the party. Trying to cut down costs since it looks like coconut milk powder is expensive and there will probably be around 30 people there. How much coconut milk and cocoa powder would you recommend on using?
Erika says
Hi Arianne, a hot cocoa bar sounds like a fantastic idea! I haven’t tried this without the powdered coconut milk so you’d want to test it first, but in theory, yes you could leave out the powder and mix up the cocoa with coconut sugar with some coconut milk. I don’t know about quantities though. You could test out a very small batch first to see? Good luck!
Brittany W says
Thank you for testing many combinations to get this one just right. I had a recipe but can’t find it for the life of me and the ones I’ve attempted on my own or from the web just didn’t do it. The ratios are just what I was looking for. I used powdered milk from my food storage, coconut sugar and cacao powder. It’s very chocolately and you could probably get away with using 2 Tbs of powder mix instead of 3 per mug. Thanks so much!
Erika says
You’re so welcome, Brittany! And thank you for the nice feedback. 🙂
Denise says
I heated up a mug of flax milk and used about 3 tbsp of cocoa mix – this is the BEST Paleo compliant recipe I have found. SO SO good!
Amber says
Can this also be used to make chocolate milk or would there need to be any adjustments? I didn’t see a separate recipe in my search. Just found your website and I’m excited to try so many recipes. =)
Erika says
Hi Amber, I haven’t used this for chocolate milk, but you could certainly try. You would need to whisk it well or even put it in a blender to have it mixed well. Have fun cooking and baking! 🙂
Vera says
Is this very bitter tasting or is it more sweet tasting?
Could you use powdered sugar in place of coconut sugar?
Does it taste very coconuty from the coconut powder?
Erika says
It’s not as sweet as the regular store bought cocoa but it’s not bitter. You can add a bit more sugar if you prefer. Yes you can use powdered or regular sugar in place of coconut sugar.
Ashleigh Gifford says
Anyone tried adding this to a reusable K-cup? Wondering if it would work in my daughter’s Keurig.
Elizabeth Klun says
I use a cocoa powder espresso mix that I found and use monkfruit instead of coconut sugar. My husband will only drink coffee if it has hot chocolate in it and he LOVES this! Super easy. I pop it in my food processor and pulse it for a bit and it comes out perfect.
Melissa says
Wow! This is really good. I used a full cup of coconut milk powder but I’m sure it would be fine with the 3/4 cup called for in recipe. I used white sugar because that is what I had. I might have also had two cups, one right after the other with a homemade chocolate marshmallow floating on top. I’m lactose intolerant but I would prefer this regardless.
Nancy Lifer says
There is also cashew milk powder.
Reg says
Do you think it would be possible to make this without sugar to let everyone sweeten it to their taste and with their sweetener of choice? I am planning to make a jar as a Christmas present. Thanks!
Erika says
Yes, that should work. Great idea!