Dairy Free Classic Mexican Hot Chocolate

Total time15 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time10 min

Dairy Free Classic Mexican Hot Chocolate

Deep, dark chocolate melts into a warmly spiced base built on cinnamon, a whisper of cayenne, and a touch of vanilla, whisked until glossy and topped with a light, coaxed-up foam right in the pot. Bittersweet cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor even further, while that pinch of cayenne gives every sip a slow-building warmth that plays beautifully against the sweetness. Whether you whisk it vigorously or roll a molinillo between your palms the traditional way, you'll get that signature frothy top that makes this drink feel special rather than just cocoa in a mug. It's rich, spiced, and deeply comforting — the kind of drink that turns a quiet evening into an occasion. This one is a great fit for a dairy free kitchen, so you can ladle it into mugs and enjoy that classic cinnamon-cayenne kick without a second thought. Dust with a little extra cinnamon on top and serve it hot for the full effect.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

4 servings

4 cups whole milk
Silk Original Soymilk, Gluten Free Silk Organic Unsweet Soy Milk - 64 fl oz Westsoy Soymilk Unsweetened Original - 64 Fl. Oz.West Life Organic Unsweetened Plain Soymilk, 32 fl oz West Life Organic Soymilk Plain
See all
Chef's tip
Use plain, unsweetened soy milk, measured 1:1. It's one of the most reliable milk swaps and works in sauces, custards, and baked goods. For hot or acidic drinks, a barista-style soy milk resists curdling.
3 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao), finely chopped
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch salt

For serving

whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Omit this
This ingredient likely doesn’t work for the diet.
ground cinnamon, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1
Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and set over medium heat. Warm until small bubbles form around the edges and steam rises steadily, about 4–5 minutes — do not let it boil.
2
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped dark chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, cayenne, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and uniform, about 2–3 minutes.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!