Can i make hot chocolate with cacao powder?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I make hot chocolate with cacao powder?” the answer is a resounding yes! In fact, using cacao powder instead of traditional cocoa powder gives you a richer flavour, more nutrients, and a deliciously earthy twist that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Australians are embracing homemade hot chocolate made from organic cacao powder for its superior chocolate flavour, smooth texture, and health benefits—a guilt-free comfort drink for chilly evenings or after a surf session.

What Is Cacao Powder?

Cacao powder is made from cold-pressed, minimally processed Theobroma cacao beans. Unlike heavily roasted cocoa, it retains natural enzymes, antioxidants, and minerals like magnesium, iron, and fiber.

This makes it the ideal base for a healthy hot chocolate recipe. It’s also packed with antioxidants, giving your immune system a boost while satisfying those chocolate cravings.

Cacao vs Cocoa Powder – What’s the Real Difference?

While they sound similar, cacao powder is raw and nutrient-rich, whereas cocoa powder is roasted and more processed. Cocoa tends to have a milder taste but fewer nutrients. For a naturally sweetened, dairy free hot chocolate, cacao is the way to go.

Why Choose Organic Raw Cacao Powder for Your Homemade Hot Chocolate

If you want the best quality cacao, look for Botanika Basics Organic Raw Cacao Powder — vegan-friendly, Australian-packed, and 100% natural. With no refined sugar or additives, it’s perfect for making homemade hot chocolate, baked goods, or even sprinkling over smoothie bowls.

👉 Buy Botanika Basics Organic Raw Cacao Powder here

How to Make Hot Chocolate with Cacao Powder

Ingredients You’ll Need for a Perfect Cup

Here’s what you’ll need to make a single serve of delicious cacao powder hot chocolate:

Step-by-Step Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe

1. In a small saucepan, combine milk and cacao powder over medium heat.

2. Whisk until smooth and gently steaming (avoid boiling).

3. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.

4. Stir until fully blended and creamy.

5. Pour into your favourite mug, serve warm, and top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or mini marshmallows.

✅ Pro Tip: To make your vegan hot chocolate extra creamy, add a spoonful of canned coconut milk or blend with a touch of almond milk.

Why Homemade Hot Chocolate Is Better for You

Commercial mixes are often full of refined sugar, artificial flavours, and dairy powder. Making homemade hot chocolate lets you control the sweetness and choose natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar.

The result? A healthy hot chocolate that’s rich, nourishing, and utterly comforting.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Hot Chocolate Variations

If you’re avoiding dairy or following a vegan lifestyle, you don’t have to miss out on the comfort of a creamy cup of hot chocolate. The secret? Choosing the right non-dairy milk and a touch of creativity.

Using Non-Dairy Milks Like Almond, Soy, or Coconut Milk

Each non-dairy milk brings its own twist to your cacao powder hot chocolate:

• Almond milk: Light and nutty, perfect for those who love a slightly roasted flavour.

• Oat milk: Creamy and smooth, making your homemade hot chocolate thick and velvety.

• Coconut milk: Rich and indulgent, adding a tropical hint that pairs beautifully with cacao.

• Soy milk: Balanced and protein-packed, ideal for a post-workout vegan hot cocoa.

These options are all gluten free, dairy free, and suitable for anyone seeking a vegan hot chocolate that tastes amazing and feels indulgent.

Making Vegan Hot Cocoa Creamy Without Dairy

To achieve that classic café-style creaminess without cow’s milk, add a spoonful of canned coconut milk or cashew cream while heating your drink. You can also blend the mixture for a few seconds for a frothy finish.

Top it with vegan whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few cacao nibs for extra crunch and antioxidants.

👉 Check our Magik Mylk

Serving Ideas: Whipped Cream, Mini Marshmallows & Chocolate Shavings

Once your hot cacao is ready, the fun part begins — toppings! Here are a few delicious ideas:

• Whipped cream (regular or vegan)

• Mini marshmallows

• Chocolate shavings or cacao nibs

• Sprinkle of cinnamon or sea salt

• A drizzle of maple syrup or honey

Want to spice it up? Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a Mexican-style hot chocolate that’s both warming and bold.

Nutritional Breakdown and Calorie Information

Homemade hot chocolate with cacao powder is not only delicious — it’s also far healthier than the store-bought sachets loaded with refined sugars. Here’s a general breakdown (per serving, depending on milk choice):

If you use Botanika Basics Organic Raw Cacao Powder, each 10g serve provides 2.5g protein, 49 calories, and a great dose of magnesium and antioxidants — a natural energy boost with a malty, deep chocolate flavour.

Product Spotlight: Botanika Basics Organic Raw Cacao Powder

Let’s talk about the star of the show — the Botanika Basics Organic Raw Cacao Powder.

Packed right here in Australia, this cacao powder is made from minimally processed Theobroma cacao beans, retaining all their natural goodness. It’s:

• Vegan friendly

• All natural

• Gluten free

• Sugar-free and dairy free

• Rich in magnesium, iron, and antioxidants

This product offers 30 serves per bag, and with a regular price of $14.95 (on sale for $10.47), it’s a steal for those looking to make a daily healthy hot chocolate recipe or to use in baked goods and smoothies.

👉 Check our organic cacao powder

Free shipping is available for orders over $120, and you’ll even earn 10 Botanika Bucks when you buy this item.

Final words

So, can you make hot chocolate with cacao powder? Absolutely — and once you try it, you may never go back to cocoa. It’s richer, healthier, and full of natural antioxidants. Whether you’re after a vegan hot cocoa, a dairy free hot chocolate, or just a comforting drink on a cool Aussie evening, cacao has you covered.

By using Botanika Basics Organic Raw Cacao Powder, you’re not only supporting an Australian brand, but also choosing a more natural, wholesome, and satisfying way to enjoy chocolate.

So grab your mug, heat your milk, whisk in your cacao, and top it off with something sweet — because this homemade hot chocolate is pure, good stuff.