Spiced Maple Hot Cocoa – Warm, Cozy, and Naturally Sweetened

There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of hot cocoa on a chilly day, especially when it’s infused with cozy spices and naturally sweetened. This spiced maple hot cocoa is one of my favorite winter treats because it brings together creamy milk, rich cocoa, and the deep caramel flavor of pure maple syrup. I first made this recipe during a snowy weekend when I wanted a comforting drink that felt nostalgic yet a little more grown-up. Since then, it has become my go-to cozy drink for evenings, gatherings, and movie nights.
If you’re looking for an easy homemade spiced hot cocoa recipe that tastes like a hug in a cup, you’re in the right place.

Ingredients

(Serves 2)

2 cups milk (whole or semi-skimmed for creaminess)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 pinch ground ginger
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt (optional, enhances flavor)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
A dash of cinnamon for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
This ensures the spices blend evenly without clumping.

2. Heat the Milk

Pour the 2 cups of milk into a saucepan.
Warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Do not let it boil; the goal is gentle steam.

3. Add the Cocoa Mixture

Once the milk is warm, whisk in the dry cocoa-and-spice mixture.
Continue whisking until the cocoa dissolves completely.

4. Sweeten With Maple Syrup

Add 3 tablespoons of maple syrup and stir to combine.
Taste and adjust the sweetness to your preference.

5. Add Vanilla and Simmer

Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Reduce the heat and let the cocoa gently simmer for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

6. Serve Warm

Pour the hot cocoa into two mugs.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like.
Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.

Tips & Variations

1. Make It Extra Creamy

Replace ½ cup of milk with cream or coconut milk to make an even richer, silkier cocoa.

2. Add a Touch of Orange

A little orange zest adds a bright, citrusy lift that pairs beautifully with cinnamon and maple.

3. Adjust the Spice Level

If you love bold spices, increase the cinnamon to ½ teaspoon or add a tiny pinch of clove for extra warmth.

4. Naturally Sweet Alternatives

Instead of maple syrup, you can use date syrup or a small amount of brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.

5. Make a Big Batch

Double or triple the ingredients to serve a crowd. Keep the mixture warm over low heat and stir occasionally.

Storing & Reheating

Storing

Allow leftover hot cocoa to cool completely.
Pour it into an airtight jar or container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze hot cocoa in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Leave some space at the top for liquid expansion.

Reheating

Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring often until hot and smooth. This method keeps the texture creamy.
Microwave: Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each round to avoid separation.
If the drink thickens after refrigeration, simply add 1–2 tablespoons of milk while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the cocoa, let it cool, and refrigerate it. Reheat it gently before serving. It still tastes fresh and delicious.

2. Can I use a non-dairy milk?

Absolutely. Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk work beautifully and add their own unique flavor.

3. Can I reduce the sweetness?

Yes, just decrease the maple syrup to 1–2 tablespoons. You can always add more later.

4. Can I turn this into an iced drink?

Yes! Chill the cocoa, pour it over ice, and blend it for a creamy iced chocolate drink.

5. Can I add chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

You can. Replace the cocoa powder with 40–50 g chopped dark chocolate for an ultra-rich version.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving)

Calories: ~180
Protein: ~7 g
Carbohydrates: ~28 g
Fat: ~5 g

Values may vary depending on the type of milk used.

This spiced maple hot cocoa is the perfect cozy drink to warm you from the inside out, whether you’re relaxing at home, hosting friends, or unwinding after a long day. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavors that taste like winter in a mug.
If you enjoyed this easy homemade recipe, feel free to leave a comment, share it on social media, or try one of my other warming drink recipes on the blog. Your support helps the community grow—and I’d love to hear how your version turned out!