When the weather turns cold, my kids seem to have it wired into them to automatically need hot chocolate. They drink enough of it that having a concentrate ready to go in the fridge just makes sense. Of course, mine uses simple, clean ingredients — a much better option than grocery store packets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This is a mix-once, keep-it-around kind of recipe. Maple syrup and cacao powder make a thick, rich base that stores well in the fridge and stirs easily into warm milk. I like that I can adjust each mug depending on who’s drinking it. One spoonful for a lighter cup, two for something richer, more for those who like to measure with their heart and find no amount of chocolate is enough! It’s practical, flexible, and easy to keep up with when hot chocolate is suddenly a daily request.
Ingredients Needed
- Maple syrup
- Cacao powder
- A splash of vanilla
- A small pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Jar or container with a lid ( I use a mason Jar)
Instructions
Add the maple syrup, cacao powder, vanilla, and salt to a bowl.
Whisk or stir until smooth and fully combined.
Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator.
To serve, stir 1–2 tablespoons of concentrate into warm milk, adjusting to taste.
Tips & Tricks
Whole milk makes the richest cup, but any milk works.
Stir before using if the concentrate thickens or settles.
A pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract is nice for a change.
Storage & Leftovers
Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
This recipe is a well loved staple in our home. When the weather stays cold and the requests keep coming, it’s nice to already have something ready to go — no measuring, no packets, just warm milk and a spoonful from the fridge.
Watch me make this recipe here:
Homemade Hot Chocolate Concentrate with Maple Syrup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/4 cup 1x
Ingredients
-
1 cup maple syrup
-
1/2 cup cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla
-
Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Add the maple syrup, cacao powder, vanilla, and salt to a bowl.
-
Whisk or stir until smooth and fully combined.
-
Transfer to a jar and store in the refrigerator.
-
To serve, stir 1–2 tablespoons of concentrate into warm milk, adjusting to taste.
