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Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe the Ultimate Comfort Drink

Last Updated on March 24, 2025 by Simon

If you’ve never considered sipping a bone broth hot chocolate recipe, you’re in for a surprising treat. This is not your average mug of cocoa. By blending the rich, savory depth of bone broth with the sweet, silky decadence of hot chocolate, you get a comforting beverage that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent.

Perfect for chilly mornings or cozy evenings, this recipe transforms a childhood favorite into a wellness-boosting drink with real culinary flair. Whether you’re looking to sneak in more protein, support your gut health, or just explore a creative way to enjoy bone broth, this drink delivers on all fronts.

What makes it special? The flavor is warm, chocolaty, and slightly earthy, like a gourmet sipping chocolate with a hint of umami. Once you try it, you may never go back to plain cocoa again.

Why This Recipe Works

This bone broth hot chocolate recipe works because it’s both nourishing and comforting, without sacrificing flavor. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

  • Gut-Healing Goodness: Bone broth is packed with collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support digestion, skin, and joint health.
  • Rich Flavor Profile: The umami depth of the broth perfectly complements the bittersweet notes of cocoa.
  • Satisfying & Protein-Packed: Unlike regular hot chocolate, this version keeps you fuller longer and fuels your body with real nutrients.
  • Customizable: Swap sweeteners, choose your favorite broth (beef or chicken), or add non-dairy milk for extra creaminess.
  • Comfort in a Cup: It’s like wrapping yourself in a blanket on a cold day, but with added health benefits.

Ingredients Breakdown

  • 1 cup bone broth (chicken or beef, unsalted)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons coconut milk or heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)

Note: Use a high-quality, organic bone broth for best results. Chicken bone broth is milder, while beef gives a deeper, more savory flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Bone Broth (2–3 minutes)

Pour the bone broth into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until it’s steaming but not boiling. This step helps release more aroma and blends better with the chocolate.

Tip: Don’t let it boil or reduce, especially if it’s already well-salted. Keep it at a gentle simmer.

2. Add the Cocoa and Cinnamon (1–2 minutes)

Whisk in the cocoa powder and cinnamon (if using) until completely dissolved and smooth. You don’t want any lumps here—consistency matters for a creamy mouthfeel.

Warning: If you add cocoa to cold broth, it may clump. Always add to hot liquid.

3. Sweeten and Flavor (1 minute)

Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well to combine. Adjust sweetness as desired.

Tip: Taste as you go. Depending on your broth, you may need more or less sweetener.

4. Add Creaminess (Optional) (1 minute)

For a richer drink, stir in coconut milk, almond milk, or heavy cream at the end. Let it warm through for another 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Pro Tip: Coconut milk complements the earthy tone of bone broth beautifully while adding healthy fats.

5. Blend (Optional but Recommended) (30 seconds)

For an ultra-smooth, frothy texture, blend the mixture using an immersion blender or pour it into a blender for a few seconds.

Bonus: This step gives your drink that café-style foam and silky finish.

6. Serve and Sip

Pour into your favorite mug, sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top, and enjoy warm.

Pro Tips for Success

Want to nail this bone broth hot chocolate every single time? Here are a few expert tips to elevate your cup:

  • Use homemade or high-quality store-bought bone broth: Flavor and nutrition matter here, go for organic, grass-fed options when possible.
  • Adjust sweetness mindfully: Start with less, especially if your broth has any inherent sweetness. Then add more as needed.
  • Cocoa powder quality counts: Use Dutch-processed or unsweetened dark cocoa powder for the best depth.
  • Add adaptogens or collagen: For an extra wellness boost, add a scoop of collagen peptides or adaptogenic powders like ashwagandha or maca.
  • Froth it up: Blending adds both body and café-style foam. Don’t skip it if you want a luxurious texture.
  • Avoid overcooking: Keep the temperature gentle. High heat can break down the flavor of the broth or make the drink too salty.
  • Flavor layering: Sea salt, cinnamon, and vanilla are simple but powerful. They help tie together the savory and sweet notes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bone broth hot chocolate piping hot in your favorite cozy mug. To make it feel like a special treat, top it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Pair it with almond flour cookies, paleo brownies, or a slice of banana bread for a wholesome snack or post-dinner treat. For an indulgent brunch, serve it alongside a plate of scrambled eggs and avocado toast.

This drink also makes a beautiful addition to a wellness-focused breakfast or a calming night-time routine. Sip it slowly, wrapped in a blanket with your favorite book or journal, it truly shines when served as a moment of comfort and self-care.

Recipe Card

Bone Broth Hot Chocolate

Recipe by SimonCourse: Comfort DrinkCuisine: WorldwideDifficulty: Easy
Servings

1

cup
Prep time

3

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

110

kcal

A cozy, protein-rich twist on traditional hot chocolate, made with nourishing bone broth, cocoa, and just the right amount of sweetness.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup bone broth (beef or chicken, unsalted)

  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • 2 tablespoons coconut milk or heavy cream (optional)

Directions

  • Heat bone broth in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming (about 2–3 minutes).
  • Whisk in cocoa powder and cinnamon until smooth and lump-free.
  • Stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  • Add coconut milk or cream for extra richness. Warm for another minute.
  • For a frothy finish, blend with an immersion blender or regular blender.
  • Serve hot in your favorite mug with optional toppings like cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Notes

  • Use high-quality bone broth for best flavor and nutrition.
  • Chicken bone broth is milder; beef adds more depth.
  • Sweeteners can be adjusted based on dietary preferences (stevia, honey, monk fruit).

FAQs

Can I taste the bone broth in the hot chocolate?

Only subtly. When paired with cocoa, vanilla, and sweetener, the savory notes of the broth fade into the background, creating a rich, balanced flavor.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, with simple tweaks. Use beef bone broth and a keto-approved sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. You can also add MCT oil or butter for extra fat content.

Can I use store-bought bone broth?

Absolutely. Just choose an unsalted, high-quality brand, ideally grass-fed or organic, to ensure flavor and nutrition aren’t compromised.

What does bone broth add to hot chocolate?

It adds protein, collagen, and minerals, transforming a sweet treat into a functional, gut-healing drink that actually nourishes your body.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. Use vegetable broth and add coconut milk and nutritional yeast for richness. It won’t have collagen but still tastes great.

Can kids drink bone broth hot chocolate?

Yes. Use low-sodium broth and adjust sweetness. Chicken broth is best for a mild, kid-friendly flavor.

Final Thoughts

This bone broth hot chocolate recipe is more than just a cozy drink, it’s a nourishing ritual. Whether you’re chasing warmth on a winter morning or winding down after a long day, this cup delivers comfort, protein, and rich chocolate flavor all in one. It’s a unique blend of indulgence and wellness that fits beautifully into any lifestyle, from keto and paleo to simply clean eating.

If you loved the depth and richness of this recipe, you might also enjoy exploring other comforting, nutrient-dense ideas. Try the best soup to eat every day for a daily dose of healing ingredients, or discover the secret ingredient in a stew to bring next-level flavor to your brothy creations. Craving something sweet afterward? This moon spell cookies recipe makes the perfect pairing with your hot chocolate.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of bone broth or just dipping your spoon into this trend, this recipe is a fantastic starting point. Don’t forget to bookmark it, share it with a friend, or leave a comment below with your favorite custom twist.

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