The holidays are a time to relax, unwind, and indulge in cozy treats. What better way to embrace the season than with a warm cup of cannabis-infused vegan hot cocoa? This delicious recipe combines rich, dairy-free ingredients with the therapeutic benefits of cannabis for a festive drink that’s both comforting and calming.
Ingredients
For the Infused Coconut Milk
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1–2 grams decarboxylated cannabis or cannabis-infused coconut oil (store-bought or homemade)
For the Hot Cocoa
- 1 cup almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
- Optional toppings: vegan whipped cream, shaved dark chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
Steps to Prepare
Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis
- Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
- Spread ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Step 2: Infuse the Coconut Milk
- Combine the coconut milk and decarboxylated cannabis in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Simmer gently for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
- Strain the infused milk through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove plant material.
Tip: If you’re using pre-made cannabis-infused coconut oil, skip this step and simply melt the oil into the hot cocoa mixture in Step 4.
Step 3: Make the Hot Cocoa
- In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until warm.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Stir the infused coconut milk (or melted cannabis-infused coconut oil) into the hot cocoa mixture.
- Pour into a festive mug and top with your favorite vegan toppings.
Vegan Whipped Cream Recipe
Top off your infused vegan hot cocoa with this easy and fluffy vegan whipped cream. Made from coconut milk, it’s the perfect addition to any cozy holiday treat!
Ingredients
- 1 can of full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream (chilled overnight)
- 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Chill Your Coconut Milk
- Place a can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the cream to separate from the liquid.
- Chill the mixing bowl and whisk or beaters in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before whipping.
Step 2: Scoop the Coconut Cream
- Open the chilled coconut milk can and scoop the solid cream into your chilled mixing bowl. Avoid including the liquid; you can save it for smoothies or other recipes.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the coconut cream on high speed for 3–5 minutes until fluffy and peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract, then whip for another 1–2 minutes until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the whipped cream over your vegan hot cocoa or other desserts.
- For extra flair, sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or shaved chocolate on top.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-whip as needed before serving.
Dosing Tips
- Start Low, Go Slow: Use a small amount of cannabis for your first batch to ensure you find the right potency.
- Know Your Strength: If using store-bought cannabis-infused coconut oil, check the label for THC/CBD content to calculate the dosage per serving.
- Portion Control: This recipe makes about two servings, so divide accordingly to avoid overconsumption.
Why Cannabis Hot Cocoa?
- Linalool or Myrcene Cultivars for Relaxation: Choose cannabis cultivars high in linalool or myrcene for a calming effect, perfect for winding down by the fire.
- Limonene for Mood Boosting: Opt for limonene-rich cultivars to elevate your holiday spirit.
Celebrate with Her Seed Bank
At Her Seed Bank, we’re here to help you explore cannabis in all its forms, from cultivation to consumption. Whether you’re searching for premium cannabis seeds like Gorilla Glue #4 or expert tips for infusions, we’ve got you covered. Visit us online at herseedbank.com and follow us on Instagram at @herseedbank for more recipes, growing advice, and holiday inspiration. Let’s make this season a little brighter—one infused mug at a time!