Bone broth hot chocolate for the win
Bone broth hot chocolate for the win !! is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 205 calories per serving. Recipe by Candice Ray on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 15 min
Cost: $3.82 total, $1.91 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Beef Bone Broth (unflavored, gelatinous; can be homemade or store‑bought)
- 1 cup Milk (whole milk for creaminess; can use 2%)
- 1 teaspoon Cacao Powder (unsweetened, high‑quality)
- 1 teaspoon Maple Syrup (pure maple syrup, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla extract)
- 1 pinch Ground Cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
Combine Broth and Milk
Measure 1 cup of beef bone broth and 1 cup of milk. Pour both into the saucepan.
Time: PT2M
Add Flavorings
Stir in 1 teaspoon cacao powder, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Time: PT1M
Heat Gently
Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Warm the mixture until it is steaming but not boiling.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 140°F
Froth the Drink
Remove the saucepan from heat. Use the milk frother to blend the hot mixture until a thick, foamy layer forms on top.
Time: PT2M
Serve and Garnish
Pour the frothy hot chocolate into two mugs. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon on each for garnish.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 205
- Protein
- 8g
- Carbohydrates
- 15g
- Fat
- 9g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Contains Dairy, Contains Meat
Allergens: Dairy, Beef
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Beef Bone Broth: Chicken Bone Broth, Vegetable Broth
- Instead of Milk: Almond Milk, Oat Milk
- Instead of Cacao Powder: Cocoa Powder
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Honey, Agave Nectar
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Almond Extract
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Ground Nutmeg, Ground Cardamom
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Milk Frother
- Measuring Cup
- Wooden Spoon
- Stove
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Do not let the mixture boil; overheating can affect texture and flavor.
- Froth the drink while it is still hot to achieve a stable foam.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra richness, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- A dash of sea salt can enhance the chocolate flavor without making it salty.
Troubleshooting
The drink is not frothy enough.
Make sure the mixture is hot (around 140°F) before frothing and use a dedicated milk frother or whisk vigorously.
The flavor is too broth‑y.
Add a little more maple syrup or a pinch more cacao to balance the savory notes.
The broth is watery, not gelatinous.
Use a high‑quality bone broth that has been simmered for at least 12 hours to extract gelatin.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and froth again before serving.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator and reheat.
Room temperature: Not recommended; the broth can spoil.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the beef bone broth ahead of time and keep it refrigerated or frozen.
- The dry ingredients (cacao, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon) can be pre‑measured and stored in a small jar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Bone Broth Hot Chocolate in American comfort food tradition?
Bone broth has long been valued in American folk medicine for its restorative properties, while hot chocolate is a classic winter comfort drink. Combining the two reflects a modern twist on traditional wellness beverages, merging nourishment with indulgence.
How is Bone Broth Hot Chocolate traditionally served in the United States during cold seasons?
It is typically served in a mug, topped with a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder, and enjoyed hot straight from the stove. Some families add a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
What occasions or celebrations is Bone Broth Hot Chocolate traditionally associated with in American culture?
While not tied to a specific holiday, it is popular at winter gatherings, after‑sport recovery drinks, and health‑focused brunches where a warm, protein‑rich beverage is welcomed.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Bone Broth Hot Chocolate versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include unflavored beef bone broth, whole milk, unsweetened cacao powder, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Acceptable substitutes are chicken or vegetable broth, plant‑based milks, cocoa powder, honey, almond extract, and nutmeg.
What other American winter drinks pair well with Bone Broth Hot Chocolate?
It pairs nicely with classic hot apple cider, spiced chai, or a simple peppermint tea, offering a balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Bone Broth Hot Chocolate at home?
Common errors include letting the mixture boil, which can cause a grainy texture, not frothing while the drink is hot, and using low‑quality broth that lacks gelatin, resulting in a watery drink.
Why does this Bone Broth Hot Chocolate recipe use low to medium heat instead of a rapid boil?
Low to medium heat gently warms the milk and broth, preserving the delicate flavor of the bone broth and preventing the milk from scorching or forming a skin, while still allowing the cacao to dissolve fully.
Can I make Bone Broth Hot Chocolate ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the broth‑milk mixture in advance, refrigerate for up to three days, and reheat gently before frothing. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and never leave it at room temperature for more than two hours.
What does the YouTube channel Candice Ray specialize in?
The YouTube channel Candice Ray focuses on simple, wholesome home cooking tutorials that blend classic comfort foods with nutritious twists, often highlighting seasonal ingredients and easy‑to‑follow techniques.
How does the YouTube channel Candice Ray's approach to American comfort beverages differ from other cooking channels?
Candice Ray emphasizes health‑forward adaptations—like adding bone broth to hot chocolate—while maintaining flavor, whereas many channels stick to traditional recipes without the nutritional boost.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
