Think about adding a little bit of sea salt, some cayenne pepper, and a bit of olive oil on top of your hot chocolate. These different toppings can make your hot chocolate taste even better.
Keep reading to find out more cool and tasty things you can add to make your hot chocolate more interesting with a savory twist.
Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free
If you’re looking to cater to vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free preferences at your hot chocolate bar, consider options like vegan marshmallows, whipped cream, dark chocolate shavings, and caramel sauce.
Ensure the toppings are dairy-free and provide alternatives like coconut or almond milk as a base for a delicious hot chocolate experience.
These choices offer a variety of flavors, textures, and serving tips that cater to a wider range of dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
1. Vegan marshmallows
When you use vegan marshmallows in your hot chocolate, remember they have a special flavor, texture, and nutritional value that make your drink both dairy-free and gluten-free better.
Vegan marshmallows are very sweet, have a soft and fluffy feel, and smell slightly like vanilla, which makes your hot chocolate even better.
These marshmallows don’t have animal products, gluten, or dairy, so many people can enjoy them.
They might not be very nutritious, but they make your drink more enjoyable. To serve, just put some marshmallows on top of your hot chocolate and let them melt into a creamy layer.
| Vegan Marshmallows | |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Sweet |
| Texture | Soft and fluffy |
| Taste | Vanilla |
| Scent | Hint of vanilla |
| Nutrition Value | Low |
2. Vegan whipped cream
Add vegan whipped cream to your hot chocolate for a tasty, dairy-free, and gluten-free topping. It’s light, fluffy, and similar to regular whipped cream, making your hot chocolate better.
It tastes sweet and creamy, and has a light vanilla smell that goes well with cocoa. This whipped cream has fewer calories and less fat than dairy whipped cream, so it’s healthier.
To use, just put a lot on your hot chocolate and add any toppings you like. Vegan whipped cream is a great choice for making your hot chocolate more enjoyable.
3. Dark chocolate shavings (ensure they are dairy-free)
To make your hot chocolate better and still keep it dairy-free, put a lot of dark chocolate shavings on it.
These shavings make your drink taste richer and more intense because of their strong cocoa flavor. They also add a crunchy texture that goes well with the creamy hot chocolate.
The smell of dark chocolate will make your drink feel more special. Dark chocolate is good for you because it has antioxidants, but remember to eat it in small amounts.
To use, just put a lot of dairy-free dark chocolate shavings on your hot chocolate. They’ll melt slowly and make your drink even more delicious with every sip.
4. Vegan caramel sauce
Make your hot chocolate better by adding vegan caramel sauce on top. This makes it sweet and special without using dairy.
- Flavor: The vegan caramel sauce tastes rich and buttery, which goes well with the chocolate taste of your drink.
- Texture: It’s smooth and creamy, making it feel luxurious when you drink it.
- Taste: The sauce adds just the right amount of sweetness, making your hot chocolate more interesting.
- Serving Tips: Pour a lot of vegan caramel sauce on your hot chocolate. You can also add a little sea salt on top to make the flavors even better.
Using vegan caramel sauce can really improve your hot chocolate.
5. Coconut milk or almond milk as a base
For a better hot chocolate, you can use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk. Coconut milk makes the hot chocolate sweet and rich, and gives it a smooth texture.
Almond milk adds a nutty flavor and makes the drink creamy, but it’s not as thick as coconut milk. Both are good for people who don’t eat dairy or gluten.
Remember to mix the milk in well and add some dairy-free whipped cream on top for extra taste.
Nut-free
When creating your nut-free hot chocolate bar, think about adding marshmallows for a sweet and fluffy topping.
Consider chocolate shavings from a nut-free chocolate bar for a rich and decadent touch.
Don’t forget to include nut-free whipped cream to elevate the flavor and creaminess of your hot chocolate.
6. Marshmallows (ensure they are nut-free)
When you choose marshmallows that don’t have nuts, they make your hot chocolate even better by adding a sweet and soft quality.
- Flavor: They’ve a typical vanilla flavor that goes well with the deep taste of chocolate.
- Texture: They’re soft and fluffy, and they slowly melt in your hot chocolate, making it creamier.
- Taste: Marshmallows add a sweet flavor that makes the drink taste better.
- Scent: The sweet smell of marshmallows makes you want to drink your hot chocolate even more.
Putting a few nut-free marshmallows in your hot chocolate not only improves the flavor but also adds a fun aspect to your beverage. The marshmallows become gooey as they melt into the hot chocolate, creating a deliciously indulgent experience.
7. Chocolate shavings from a nut-free chocolate bar
Enjoy the rich taste of nut-free chocolate shavings on your hot chocolate. These shavings have a strong chocolate flavor that makes your drink taste better. They’ve a different texture that feels nice when you drink the smooth hot chocolate.
The smell of the chocolate becomes stronger when you add the shavings, making the drink more appealing. Adding chocolate shavings adds a bit more sugar and calories to your hot chocolate.
To serve, put a lot of shavings on your hot chocolate and watch them melt, making the drink even more chocolaty.
8. Whipped cream (ensure it’s nut-free)
To make your hot chocolate better, use whipped cream that doesn’t have nuts. Here’s why whipped cream is a great choice:
- Flavor: It makes your drink slightly sweet, which goes well with the chocolate.
- Texture: Whipped cream is light and fluffy. It blends into your hot chocolate, making it feel smooth.
- Taste: It makes your hot chocolate taste creamier and richer.
- How to Use: Put a lot of whipped cream on your hot chocolate. You can also add some cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for more flavor.
This makes your drink more enjoyable with different tastes and textures.
Low-carb, High-protein
Looking for low-carb, high-protein options for your hot chocolate bar? Consider adding sugar-free chocolate or chocolate chips for a boost in flavor and nutrition value.
Don’t forget to include protein powder, ensuring it’s low-carb and vegan if needed, to enhance the taste and texture of your hot chocolate creations.
9. Sugar-free chocolate or chocolate chips
Enhance your hot chocolate by adding sugar-free chocolate or chocolate chips. These chips are tasty, low in carbs, and high in protein. Here are some reasons to try them:
- Flavor: Sugar-free chocolate chips have a rich taste but are guilt-free.
- Texture: They add a satisfying crunch to creamy hot chocolate.
- Taste: They’re sweet without having too much sugar, making them a healthier option.
- Nutrition: They’re high in protein, making your hot chocolate more nutritious.
For a healthier twist, sprinkle these chips on your hot chocolate. They make it low-carb and high-protein.
10. Protein powder (ensure it’s low-carb and vegan if necessary)
To make your hot chocolate better and healthier, add low-carb and vegan protein powder. This kind of protein powder improves the drink’s flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
It can make the hot chocolate creamier, add a little flavor, and provide important amino acids.
Make sure to mix the protein powder well to avoid lumps, which will make the hot chocolate taste and smell better.
When you serve it, put some protein powder on top of the hot chocolate and stir it in well. This not only adds more protein but also makes your treat healthier.
Sugar-free
When it comes to sugar-free options for your hot chocolate bar, you can consider sugar-free marshmallows, sugar-free whipped cream, and sugar-free chocolate or chocolate chips.
These toppings offer a variety of flavors, textures, and tastes while being mindful of sugar content.
Experiment with these sugar-free alternatives to enhance your hot chocolate experience without the added sweetness.
11. Sugar-free marshmallows
Enjoy sugar-free marshmallows without feeling guilty. They’re a great addition to your hot chocolate.
- Flavor: These marshmallows have a mild vanilla taste that goes well with hot chocolate.
- Texture: They’re soft, fluffy, and melt easily, making your drink more enjoyable.
- Taste: They taste like regular marshmallows but without the sugar, ideal for those reducing sugar intake.
- Nutrition Value: Sugar-free marshmallows have fewer calories and carbs, offering a healthier option for your hot chocolate.
Add these sugar-free marshmallows to your hot chocolate for a tasty and healthier option!
12. Sugar-free whipped cream
Improve your hot chocolate by adding sugar-free whipped cream for better flavor. This whipped cream is a good choice if you want to enjoy something sweet without guilt. It’s very light and mixes well with hot chocolate.
The taste is creamy and makes your drink feel more special. It also has a light vanilla smell that makes your hot chocolate smell better. This whipped cream has fewer calories than regular whipped cream, so it’s good for people trying to eat less sugar.
To serve, put a lot of sugar-free whipped cream on your hot chocolate and add some cocoa powder for extra flavor.
- Flavor: Creamy
- Texture: Light and airy
- Taste: Creamy
13. Sugar-free chocolate or chocolate chips
To enjoy a hot chocolate bar without feeling guilty, use sugar-free chocolate or chocolate chips. They add great flavor and sweetness without sugar. Here’s why sugar-free options are good:
- Flavor: Sugar-free chocolate or chips have a deep cocoa taste.
- Texture: They blend well into hot chocolate, making it smooth.
- Taste: The sweetness is just right and makes your drink taste better.
- Nutrition Value: Sugar-free chocolate is better for you if you’re trying to eat less sugar.
Adding sugar-free chocolate chips to your hot chocolate is a tasty and guilt-free choice!
Spicy
You can elevate your hot chocolate experience with a touch of heat by adding cayenne pepper or cinnamon sticks.
These spicy toppings not only enhance the flavor but also provide a unique texture and aroma to your drink.
Experiment with these ingredients to discover the perfect balance of spice in your hot chocolate.
14. Cayenne pepper
To make your hot chocolate more exciting, try adding cayenne pepper. Here’s what you need to know:
- Flavor: Cayenne pepper adds a light spicy taste that goes well with the sweet chocolate.
- Texture: It’s a fine powder that mixes well into the drink.
- Taste: It brings a warm, spicy flavor that stays in your mouth.
- Serving Tips: For a spicy touch, lightly sprinkle some cayenne pepper over whipped cream or marshmallows.
Using cayenne pepper can make your hot chocolate more interesting by adding a spicy depth. So, feel free to experiment with this spice.
15. Cinnamon sticks
Add cinnamon sticks to your hot chocolate to make it tastier. Cinnamon sticks give your drink a rich, slightly sweet taste and a bit of spice, which goes well with the cocoa. They’re woody and strong, good for stirring your drink and mixing the flavors.
Cinnamon tastes warm and comforting, with a little bit of an earthy flavor that makes your chocolate drink better.
They also make the air smell nice and cozy. Cinnamon sticks are good for you because they’ve lots of antioxidants and help reduce inflammation.
To use them best, let them sit in your hot chocolate for a few minutes before drinking to get more flavor.
Sweet
You can sweeten your hot chocolate with maple syrup or honey for a natural touch of sweetness.
Opt for chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips to add a rich and decadent flavor to your drink.
These sweet toppings will elevate your hot chocolate experience with their delicious taste and texture.
16. Maple syrup or honey as a sweetener (for vegan, use maple syrup)
If you’re looking for a vegan sweetener for your hot chocolate, maple syrup is a great choice. Here’s why maple syrup is a good addition to hot chocolate:
- Flavor: Maple syrup gives your hot chocolate a rich, caramel-like flavor, making it sweeter.
- Texture: Maple syrup is smooth, so it mixes well into your drink, making it creamy.
- Taste: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor to your hot chocolate, making it taste different.
- Nutrition Value: Maple syrup has minerals like manganese and zinc, which are good for your health.
Try adding maple syrup to your hot chocolate for a tasty and healthy sweetener.
17. Chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips
To make your hot chocolate better, you can add chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips. Chocolate chips make your drink sweeter and add a rich chocolate flavor when they melt.
Mini chocolate chips melt faster because they’re smaller, which makes your hot chocolate taste better with every sip. Both types make your drink smell like cocoa, making it more enjoyable.
However, chocolate chips have a lot of sugar and fat, so it’s best not to use too much. You can put them on whipped cream or marshmallows to make your hot chocolate even more delicious.
Savory
When you think of savory hot chocolate toppings, sea salt or salted caramel can add a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the drink.
Additionally, coconut shavings can provide a unique texture and flavor profile to your hot chocolate.
Consider experimenting with these savory options to elevate your hot chocolate experience.
18. Sea salt or salted caramel
Enjoy the mix of sea salt or salted caramel with your hot chocolate. These toppings can make your hot chocolate taste better. Here’s why you should try them:
- Flavor: Sea salt can make the hot chocolate less sweet with its salty taste, while salted caramel adds a smooth, sweet flavor.
- Texture: Sea salt has a crunchy feel, and salted caramel is sticky and soft, adding interesting textures to your drink.
- Taste: Sea salt cuts down the sweetness, making the flavor more balanced. Salted caramel makes the hot chocolate more rich and enjoyable.
- Serving Tips: For the best taste, add a little sea salt or salted caramel to your hot chocolate right before you drink it.
19. Coconut shavings
If you want to make your hot chocolate more interesting, try adding coconut shavings on top. Coconut shavings have a unique taste and texture that goes well with hot chocolate. They’re slightly sweet and nutty, which matches the hot chocolate’s rich taste.
Coconut shavings also add a crunchy texture, making the drink more enjoyable. The smell of coconut can make you feel like you’re at the beach, making the moment more special. Coconut shavings are good for you because they’ve a lot of fiber and healthy fats.
To use them, just put a good amount of coconut shavings on your hot chocolate and enjoy the mix of different flavors and textures.
Kosher
When it comes to setting up a hot chocolate bar with kosher toppings, ensuring that your hot cocoa mix and marshmallows are kosher-certified is essential. The certification guarantees that these ingredients meet the strict dietary requirements, providing you with a delicious and worry-free hot chocolate experience.
Be sure to check for the kosher symbol on the packaging to enjoy a tasty and compliant treat.
20. Kosher-certified hot cocoa mix
Upgrade your hot chocolate experience by choosing a top-quality, kosher-certified hot cocoa mix.
- Flavor: Enjoy a deep chocolate taste that makes you feel warm.
- Texture: Relish in its creamy feel that blends well with hot milk or water.
- Taste: Find the sweetness just right, enhancing the chocolate without being too much.
- Nutrition Value: Have a treat that’s often low in calories and can be used with alternatives to dairy for a healthier choice.
Serving Tip: For smooth hot chocolate without lumps, first mix the cocoa powder with a bit of warm milk to make a paste, then add the rest of your liquid.
21. Kosher marshmallows
Improve your hot chocolate with high-quality kosher marshmallows. They make it sweeter and add a nice texture. You can find them in flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate.
Kosher marshmallows are soft, fluffy, and chewy, which makes your hot chocolate more enjoyable.
They taste sweet and work well with the rich taste of hot chocolate. While they’re not very nutritious, you can still have them as a special treat.
You can put them on sticks for fun or let them melt in your hot chocolate for a smooth taste.
Low Sodium
When considering low sodium options for your hot chocolate bar, opt for unsweetened cocoa powder and carefully regulate the addition of salt to control flavor and nutrition values.
By being mindful of the salt content, you can enhance the taste, texture, and overall experience of your hot chocolate without compromising on health benefits.
Experiment with different serving tips to find the perfect balance that suits your preferences.
22. Use unsweetened cocoa powder and control the amount of added salt
To make a healthier hot chocolate, use unsweetened cocoa powder and add only a little salt according to what you like. Here’s why this is a good idea:
- Flavor: The cocoa powder gives a strong chocolate flavor without needing much salt.
- Texture: It makes the hot chocolate smooth without adding salt.
- Taste: You can make it taste exactly how you want by controlling the salt.
- Nutrition Value: Using unsweetened cocoa powder lets you enjoy cocoa’s health benefits without eating too much salt.
High-fiber
When creating your hot chocolate bar, don’t forget to consider adding high-fiber toppings like chia seeds or flaxseeds, which can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of your drink.
Ground chia seeds or flaxseeds are great options that can provide a satisfying texture and additional health benefits, making your hot chocolate experience even more enjoyable.
Elevate your hot chocolate bar with these high-fiber choices that not only taste good but also contribute to your overall well-being.
23. Add high-fiber toppings like chia seeds or flaxseeds (ensure they are ground for better digestion)
Make your hot chocolate better with healthy toppings like chia seeds or ground flaxseeds. These toppings make your hot chocolate crunchy and more nutritious. Here are the reasons to add these high-fiber toppings:
- Flavor: Chia seeds and flaxseeds give a mild nutty taste to your hot chocolate.
- Texture: They add a nice texture that goes well with the creamy hot chocolate.
- Taste: These toppings improve the taste of your hot chocolate.
- Nutrition Value: Chia seeds and flaxseeds are full of fiber, omega-3 fats, and important vitamins and minerals, making your drink healthier.
Low-glycemic
When it comes to low-glycemic options for your hot chocolate bar, consider using sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia. These alternatives can offer a balance of flavor and nutrition without causing a spike in blood sugar levels.
Experiment with different serving tips to find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds.
24. Use low-glycemic sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia
Use low-glycemic sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia to make your hot chocolate toppings tastier and healthier. These sweeteners are good for you in several ways:
- Better Flavor: They make your hot chocolate taste better by adding a unique flavor that goes well with the cocoa.
- Healthier Choice: Since coconut sugar and stevia have lower glycemic indexes than regular sweeteners, they’re a healthier option.
- Smooth Texture: They help keep your hot chocolate smooth and enjoyable to drink.
- Added Nutrients: Coconut sugar has important minerals like iron, zinc, and potassium. Stevia doesn’t have calories, which is a plus for your health.
Kid-friendly
When setting up a hot chocolate bar for kids, consider adding mini marshmallows and sprinkles.
Mini marshmallows are a classic topping that kids love for their texture and sweet taste.
Sprinkles can add a fun touch to the hot chocolate and come in various flavors and colors to appeal to children.
25. Mini marshmallows
Adding mini marshmallows to your hot chocolate can make it more enjoyable. Here are four reasons why mini marshmallows are great for hot chocolate:
- Flavor: Mini marshmallows add extra sweetness that goes well with the rich chocolate taste.
- Texture: They’re soft and chewy, which makes drinking more interesting.
- Taste: When mini marshmallows melt a bit in the hot drink, they make it creamy and more delicious.
- Serving tips: Put a lot of mini marshmallows on your hot chocolate. As they melt slowly, they add their sweetness to your drink.
26. Sprinkles (ensure they are vegan and gluten-free if necessary)
Add vegan and gluten-free sprinkles to your hot chocolate for fun. These sprinkles are colorful and can make the drink look and taste exciting. They come in different shapes and flavors. They’re not very nutritious but make the hot chocolate look better.
Kids especially like them. To use, just add them on top of whipped cream or marshmallows to make the hot chocolate more special.
Whole30
When preparing your hot chocolate bar for Whole30, opt for unsweetened cocoa powder and compliant milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk. Remember to steer clear of sweeteners and processed toppings to stay in line with the program’s guidelines.
27. Use unsweetened cocoa powder and compliant milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk
For a healthier hot chocolate during Whole30, use unsweetened cocoa powder and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk. This mix improves your drink’s flavor and health benefits. Here are the reasons to choose this combination:
- Flavor: Unsweetened cocoa powder makes the chocolate taste stronger and richer.
- Texture: Almond or coconut milk makes the hot chocolate creamy without using dairy.
- Taste: This mix creates a well-balanced sweet and rich flavor.
- Nutrition: Almond and coconut milk add vitamins and minerals, making your hot chocolate more nutritious.
Try this for a tasty and Whole30-friendly hot chocolate.
28. Avoid sweeteners and processed toppings
For a better Whole30 hot chocolate, use natural toppings without sweeteners or processed stuff. Go for things like coconut flakes without sugar, cacao nibs that are raw, or cinnamon. These add taste, texture, and are healthier.
Skipping sweeteners and processed toppings lets you enjoy the deep flavor of cocoa without extra sugar. Try adding a bit of sea salt or some coconut cream for extra richness.
When making Whole30 hot chocolate, keep it simple. A few good toppings can make your drink much better.
Quick
When you’re in a rush but still want to enjoy a delicious hot chocolate, pre-made vegan whipped cream and store-bought vegan marshmallows are your go-to toppings. These quick options provide convenience without compromising on flavor or texture, making your hot chocolate experience delightful in no time.
Simply add a dollop of whipped cream and a few marshmallows to your steaming cup of cocoa for a speedy yet satisfying treat.
29. Pre-made vegan whipped cream
Make your hot chocolate better by using pre-made vegan whipped cream. It makes your drink more enjoyable.
- Flavor: It has a rich, creamy taste that might remind you of coconut or almond. This makes your hot chocolate taste better.
- Texture: It’s light and fluffy, and it mixes well into your drink, making it smooth and creamy.
- Taste: It’s sweet but not too much, so it goes well with the chocolate taste of your hot cocoa.
- Nutrition Value: It usually has fewer calories and less saturated fat than regular whipped cream. This means you can enjoy it without feeling guilty.
Serving Tip: Put a spoonful on your hot chocolate and add some cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for something extra special.
30. Store-bought vegan marshmallows
Store-bought vegan marshmallows are a good choice for your hot chocolate. They don’t use animal products and taste similar to regular marshmallows. You can find them in many flavors like vanilla, fruit, and chocolate.
They are soft and work well in hot chocolate or for making s’mores. They smell a bit different because they don’t have gelatin, but they still smell sweet.
Vegan marshmallows usually have fewer calories and less sugar than regular ones. Always check the package for nutrition information. Enjoy these without worrying!
| Feature | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Many flavors available | Try different ones |
| Texture | Soft | Good for melting |
| Taste | Sweet | Makes hot chocolate better |
| Scent | A bit different | Still smells sweet |
| Nutrition | Less calories and sugar | Look at the package for info |
Wrapping UP
The next time you want a warm cup of hot chocolate, remember to try these amazing savory toppings!
No matter if you eat vegan, gluten-free, low-carb, or just want something different, there’s a topping for you.
From spicy to ones perfect for kids, you’ll discover a tasty mix that makes you feel warm all over.
Have fun trying them!