Keto Low-Carb Hot Chocolate Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade keto low-carb hot chocolate that's rich, creamy and completely sugar-free! This easy hot chocolate recipe delivers deep chocolate flavor with just 3g net carbs. Perfect for cold evenings when you're craving something warm, comforting and indulgent without breaking your low-carb lifestyle.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

5 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

1 mocktail

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk for extra richness)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tablespoons heavy cream</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1-2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2-3 teaspoons erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener (adjust to taste)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Optional: 1/2 tablespoon butter or MCT oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">For garnish: whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

🔥 Calories:

🥑 Fat:

🧈 Saturated Fat:

🍞 Carbohydrates:

🍭 Sugar:

🍗 Protein:

🫀 Cholesterol:

🧂 Sodium:

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Small saucepan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Whisk</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Heat-resistant mug</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Pour the almond milk and heavy cream into a small saucepan and place over medium-low heat. Heating gradually rather than boiling prevents the almond milk from separating and creates a smoother texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>While the milk is warming, add the cocoa powder, sweetener, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl and mix to eliminate any lumps. The salt is crucial as it enhances the chocolate flavor without adding sweetness, making your low-carb hot chocolate taste more like a traditional version.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>When the milk mixture is warm but not boiling (you should see small bubbles forming around the edges, about 70°C), whisk in the cocoa mixture. Continue whisking until completely dissolved and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Persistent whisking creates that silky, velvety texture that makes great hot chocolate.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, which adds complexity and natural sweetness without carbs. If using butter or MCT oil for extra richness and keto-friendly fats, add now and whisk until fully incorporated and slightly frothy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug and taste-test. This is your opportunity to adjust - add a touch more sweetener if needed or a splash more cream for extra richness. Remember that keto palates often adjust to appreciate less sweetness over time.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>If desired, top with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder. The contrast between the hot chocolate and cold cream creates a luxurious drinking experience while adding minimal additional carbs.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Serve immediately while hot. The flavors are most vibrant when freshly made and at the perfect drinking temperature of about 65°C, where the chocolate notes fully develop without burning your tongue.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Keto Low-Carb Hot Chocolate Recipe?

This keto hot chocolate uses unsweetened almond milk, heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, low-carb sweeteners (erythritol, stevia or monk fruit), vanilla extract, salt, and optional butter or MCT oil. It's topped with sugar-free whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa.

How to make Keto Low-Carb Hot Chocolate Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Keto Low-Carb Hot Chocolate Recipe by gently heating almond milk with heavy cream, whisking in cocoa powder, sweetener and salt until smooth, then adding vanilla extract and optional fats. This simple process creates a rich, velvety drink with deep chocolate flavour in just 5 minutes, all while keeping carbs to a minimum.

Can I make this hot chocolate with coconut milk instead of almond milk?

Absolutely! Coconut milk makes an excellent substitute that adds extra richness and creaminess to your hot chocolate while keeping it keto-friendly. Full-fat coconut milk will give you the most luxurious texture, though it may slightly increase the carb count compared to almond milk.

What's the best low-carb sweetener for hot chocolate?

The best sweeteners for keto hot chocolate are erythritol, monk fruit or allulose as they dissolve well in hot liquids and don't have an aftertaste. Liquid stevia also works but use sparingly as it's concentrated. Blend sweeteners for a more sugar-like taste without cooling effects.

Why add butter or MCT oil to hot chocolate?

Adding butter or MCT oil creates a more satisfying "bulletproof" hot chocolate by incorporating healthy fats that help maintain ketosis while providing sustained energy. These fats create a silkier mouthfeel, enhance flavour richness, and make the drink more filling without adding carbs.

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