If you love the rich, velvety taste of hot chocolate but want a nourishing boost, bone broth hot chocolate recipe might just become your new favorite drink. This creamy, chocolatey beverage blends the comforting flavors of traditional hot cocoa with the deep, savory goodness of bone broth, creating a truly unique and nutritious experience. It might sound unusual at first, but once you take a sip, you’ll be hooked on the surprisingly smooth and delicious combination.
I first discovered bone broth hot chocolate when searching for a way to warm up on cold mornings while getting an extra dose of collagen and protein. As a long-time fan of both hot chocolate and bone broth, I was curious whether these two could work together. To my delight, the result was a beautifully balanced drink that’s not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits.
This recipe is perfect for cozy evenings, post-workout recovery, or even as a nourishing breakfast alternative. The bone broth adds a depth of flavor that enhances the cocoa without overpowering it, while also providing essential nutrients like collagen, amino acids, and minerals. Unlike sugary store-bought hot chocolate, this version offers a more wholesome, nutrient-dense option that can support your gut, skin, and joint health.
Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free hot chocolate, a protein-rich drink, or just an interesting new way to enjoy bone broth, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, you can easily customize it to match your dietary needs, use coconut milk for a paleo-friendly version or add a dash of cinnamon and cayenne for a spicy kick.
Table of contents
Why This Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe Works
1. A Nutrient-Packed Alternative to Traditional Hot Chocolate
Regular hot chocolate is often loaded with sugar and lacks nutritional value, but bone broth hot chocolate changes the game. Bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which support joint health, digestion, and glowing skin.
2. Surprisingly Delicious Flavor
If you’re worried about the taste of bone broth overpowering your cocoa, don’t be! When blended with creamy milk (or dairy-free alternatives), high-quality cocoa powder, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, the broth’s umami notes subtly enhance the drink, making it richer and more satisfying.
3. Customizable for Any Diet
This bone broth hot chocolate recipe can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs. Want a keto-friendly version? Use unsweetened almond milk and monk fruit sweetener. Prefer a dairy-free option? Coconut milk works beautifully. You can even add adaptogens like maca or ashwagandha for an extra wellness boost.
4. Supports Gut and Immune Health
Bone broth contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which help heal the gut lining and reduce inflammation. Drinking bone broth hot chocolate regularly can support digestion, strengthen your immune system, and provide sustained energy without the sugar crash.
Recipe Card
Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe
Cuisine: Inspired by classic hot chocolateDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes5
minutes150
kcalThis bone broth hot chocolate is a perfect blend of deep, velvety chocolate flavors and the gut-healing benefits of bone broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter drink or a nourishing post-workout treat, this recipe delivers warmth, protein, and indulgence in one cup.
Ingredients
1 cup beef or chicken bone broth (preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought)
1 cup milk of choice (almond, coconut, or whole milk)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon honey, maple syrup, or keto sweetener
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt
A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
1 teaspoon butter or coconut oil (for extra creaminess, optional)
Directions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the bone broth and milk together until steaming, but not boiling.
- Whisk in cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla extract, sea salt, and cinnamon. Stir continuously until smooth.
- If using, add butter or coconut oil, and blend with a hand whisk or immersion blender for a frothy texture.
- Pour into a mug and enjoy immediately. Garnish with shaved dark chocolate, a cinnamon stick, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder if desired.
Notes
- For keto-friendly hot chocolate, use unsweetened almond or coconut milk and a keto sweetener.
- If you don’t like the slight savory undertone from bone broth, start with a mild chicken broth or mix it with more milk.
- A high-powered blender can make this drink extra creamy!
Pro Tips for Success
Making bone broth hot chocolate is easy, but a few key techniques will ensure you get the best flavor and texture. Follow these pro tips to achieve a creamy, well-balanced drink every time.
1. Choose a High-Quality Bone Broth
Not all bone broths are created equal. For the best results, use a homemade bone broth or a high-quality store-bought version made from grass-fed beef bones or organic chicken bones. Avoid bone broths with added flavors, excessive sodium, or artificial ingredients, as these can interfere with the taste of your hot chocolate.
2. Use Unsweetened Cocoa Powder or Dark Chocolate
For a rich and deep chocolate flavor, use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder or at least 70% dark chocolate. Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother taste, while raw cacao powder provides additional antioxidants and a more intense chocolate profile.
3. Heat the Bone Broth Gently
Never boil your bone broth, as high temperatures can break down the beneficial collagen and create an unpleasant taste. Instead, gently warm it over low to medium heat before adding the other ingredients.
4. Whisk or Blend for a Creamy Texture
To ensure your bone broth hot chocolate is silky smooth, whisk the ingredients thoroughly or use an immersion blender. This helps prevent any cocoa clumps and creates a frothy, café-style texture.
Variants of the Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe
One of the best things about bone broth hot chocolate is how versatile it can be. You can tweak the recipe to fit different dietary preferences, flavor profiles, and nutritional needs. Here are some delicious variations to explore:
1. Keto Bone Broth Hot Chocolate
For a low-carb, high-fat version, replace the sweetener with a keto-friendly option like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Use full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk to boost the fat content and enhance creaminess. Adding MCT oil or grass-fed butter can provide extra energy and make it a satisfying drink for those following a ketogenic diet.
2. Spiced Mexican Bone Broth Hot Chocolate
If you love a bit of heat in your drinks, try a Mexican-inspired hot chocolate by adding:
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- A dash of nutmeg
- A small piece of dark chocolate (85% cocoa or higher) melted in the drink
These spices give the drink a deep, warming kick, perfect for chilly days.
3. Dairy-Free & Paleo Bone Broth Hot Chocolate
For a dairy-free and paleo-friendly version, use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy milk. Sweeten with raw honey or maple syrup to keep it unprocessed and natural. Adding a little coconut cream makes the drink extra luscious.
4. Superfood Bone Broth Hot Chocolate
Boost the health benefits of your hot chocolate by adding superfoods like:
- Collagen powder – Extra protein and joint support.
- Maca powder – Helps with energy and hormone balance.
- Chaga mushroom or reishi powder – Known for immune support and stress relief.
- Turmeric and black pepper – Anti-inflammatory and adds a golden latte vibe.
Simply blend any of these into the drink for a powerhouse beverage!
FAQ about Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe
Bone broth hot chocolate has a rich, chocolatey flavor with a slightly deeper umami undertone. If made correctly, the broth is hardly noticeable, but it adds a velvety texture and extra nutrients.
Since bone broth is an animal product, a true vegan version isn’t possible. However, you can substitute mushroom broth or seaweed broth for a similar umami depth. Use plant-based milk and coconut oil for extra creaminess.
Both chicken and beef bone broth work well. Chicken broth is milder, while beef broth adds a more robust taste. Always opt for unsalted, slow-simmered bone broth for the best results.
Use a milk frother, immersion blender, or a high-speed blender to create a rich, foamy texture. Adding a teaspoon of butter or coconut oil also helps with creaminess.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried bone broth hot chocolate, this is your sign to give it a go! This unique drink combines deep chocolate flavors with the nourishing benefits of bone broth, making it an excellent alternative to traditional hot cocoa. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative, a protein-packed winter drink, or a gut-friendly treat, this recipe has something for everyone.
One of the best things about this recipe is its customizability. You can adjust the sweetness, milk type, and broth base to suit your dietary needs. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, a few minutes on the stove, and you’ll have a warm, cozy mug of chocolatey goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different flavors, such as adding a hint of peppermint, a shot of espresso, or even some chili powder for a spicy kick!
Beyond its amazing taste, the health benefits of this drink are undeniable. Bone broth is known for its collagen, amino acids, and gut-healing properties, while dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants. Together, they make a powerful duo that supports immune function, skin health, and overall well-being.
So, the next time you’re craving hot chocolate, consider upgrading it with bone broth. It’s a delicious and unexpected twist that will keep you feeling warm, cozy, and nourished all winter long.
And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other cozy drinks, like:
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