Lactose-free hot cocoa

Lactose-free hot cocoa

10 min
Get ready to cosy up with a steamy cup of comfort that feels like a warm hug. Introducing our delectable lactose-free hot cocoa recipe – the perfect treat for anyone who loves the indulging taste of a classic hot cocoa but wants to keep lactose at bay. So, grab your finest mug, put on your snuggest socks, and whip up a drink of pure joy.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/lactose-free-hot-cocoa/

Instructions

  • Mix cocoa powder and sugar with a bit of milk in a large cup and stir until smooth.
  • Heat the remaining milk and combine with the cocoa mixture.
  • Place a large dollop of whipped cream in the cup. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Enjoy!
Tips

There are two main types of cocoa powder: natural and Dutch-processed. Natural cocoa powder is lighter in colour and has a more acidic taste, with fruity and slightly bitter notes. It is made from cocoa beans that have been roasted and ground into a fine powder without any further treatment. This variety can add a vibrant and intense chocolate flavour to your hot chocolate with cocoa powder.

Questions about lactose-free hot cocoa

Our recipe for lactose-free hot cocoa is happiness in a mug, and you only need three ingredients and a generous dollop of whipped cream to make it. Have a read below to learn more about the popular hot beverage.

Is hot cocoa lactose-free?
Hot cocoa is typically made with milk or milk-based products that contain lactose. However, it is possible to make lactose-free hot cocoa. Instead of using regular milk, simply substitute it with lactose-free milk.
Can you make hot cocoa with lactose-free milk?
You can certainly make hot cocoa with lactose-free milk. Lactose-free or plant-based milk varieties provide an excellent alternative if you wish to avoid lactose. These alternatives generally have a consistency similar to regular milk, so you get the same creamy and delicious result. They can be slightly sweeter in taste so have a sip to determine if you will need to adjust the sugar content.
How to ensure smooth and even-textured lactose-free hot cocoa?
When warming the lactose-free milk, avoid boiling it, as this can alter the taste and texture. Instead, heat the milk gently over low to medium heat until it reaches the desired temperature. This gentle heating process will help maintain the smooth, velvety texture of the drink. You can easily scale up the recipe by multiplying the ingredients. Be sure to use a larger pot to heat the milk evenly and to accommodate the increased volume.

Ingredients

Arla® LactoFREE Milk
200 ml
Cocoa powder
1 tsp
Caster sugar
2 tsp
50 ml

Enjoy a cosy time with a cup of lactose-free hot cocoa

There is nothing quite like snuggling up with a warm and comforting cup of hot cocoa, a classic drink that has been around for ages. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Mayans, who consumed a bitter drink called ‘xocoatl’ made from cacao beans mixed with water, chilli peppers, and other spices. Over time, the beverage evolved and became popular in Europe, where it was sweetened and transformed into the delicious, rich drink we know today.

It has become a beloved beverage that is perfect for sipping on chilly evenings, during festive occasions, or simply as a special treat after a long day. What makes our lactose-free hot cocoa even more appealing is its delightful taste and easy preparation, allowing you to whip up a delicious drink in mere minutes. With its rich and creamy flavour, it offers an inviting experience that is sure to become a favourite in your household.

Enjoy your lactose-free hot cocoa with our lactose-free brownies with hazelnuts or lactose-free chocolate cupcakes with vanilla cream topping. You can also go for a slice of our lactose-free chocolate cake.

The same round and creamy flavour – just without lactose

Lactose-free hot cocoa offers a delicious alternative to its traditional counterpart, providing the same delightful taste simply without the lactose. Made with a simple yet tasty combination of cocoa powder, sugar, and lactose-free milk, this version of the classic drink ensures that everyone can enjoy its rich and satisfying flavour. This recipe, with only three basic ingredients, demonstrates that it is easy to create an inclusive and delectable beverage that caters to everyone. With lactose-free hot cocoa, you can indulge in the creamy, comforting experience you love while leaving lactose behind.

Lactose-free whipped cream as the cherry on top

The addition of lactose-free whipped cream truly elevates the drink, providing a luxurious final flourish that enhances the taste and texture. As the whipped cream slowly melts, it creates an even creamier and more indulgent beverage, making each sip an exquisite delight. This dairy-free topping not only caters to a wider audience but also adds an extra layer of decadence that will keep you coming back for more.

Spice it up to match the season

Adding seasonal flair to your lactose-free hot cocoa is a wonderful way to celebrate the changing seasons while indulging in new and exciting flavour combinations.

During the Christmas season, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a touch of nutmeg can evoke feelings of warmth, cheer, and nostalgia. These spices bring an aromatic depth to the lactose-free hot cocoa and pair beautifully with the rich cocoa flavour, creating a harmonious blend that is perfect for festive gatherings.

For autumn, consider adding a hint of pumpkin spice, a delightful mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, to celebrate the harvest season. This warming blend of spices accentuates the comforting nature of hot cocoa while adding a touch of autumnal magic.

You might even try infusing your hot cocoa with orange zest or a few drops of orange extract to create a citrusy twist. The zesty brightness of the orange flavour complements the deep, earthy notes of the cocoa, resulting in a refreshing and invigorating combination that can be enjoyed all year round.

For those seeking a more adventurous taste experience, a dash of chilli powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper can bring an unexpected heat to your drink. This spicy kick offers a tantalising contrast to the smooth, velvety texture of the drink that will leave your taste buds tingling.