Peanut Butter Hot Cocoa

There is nothing quite as delectable as the combination of comforting hot cocoa and rich, creamy peanut butter. Whether you’re looking for warmth on a cold day or need comfort in a cup this peanut butter hot cocoa recipe is perfect.

With only 4 ingredients and less than 10 minutes you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying gluten free treat. In this article you’ll learn how to make your own peanut butter hot chocolate from scratch that everyone in your family will enjoy.

Keep reading for the full recipe, easy alternatives if you need to make the recipe dairy free or sugar free, and some of my favorite optional toppings for extra fun.

The gluten-free guide below is based on personal experience and research.  Always be sure to discuss any medical changes with your doctor for your personal medical needs. Additionally, this post contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. My full disclosure isn’t that interesting, but you can find it here. 

Why you’re going to love this peanut butter hot cocoa recipe:

• Unique Flavor Profile: The taste of peanut butter and hot chocolate is unique and unlike anything else. It's a delightful mix of sweet, creamy, and slightly salty flavors that offer a refreshing change from traditional hot chocolate.
  
• Health Benefits: While it may seem like a treat, peanut butter hot chocolate also offers health benefits. Peanut butter is high in protein, vitamin B3, and fiber, while cocoa contains antioxidants and can aid in digestion.
  
• Allergen Friendly: Whether you’re gluten free, dairy free, vegan or have any other dietary restrictions, this peanut butter hot chocolate is so easy to customize to suit. 

Is hot cocoa with peanut butter gluten free?

Yes, generally peanut butter hot chocolate is gluten free because the ingredients used to make it are gluten free. Since peanut butter and cocoa powder are typically gluten free, you can safely enjoy peanut butter hot cocoa on a gluten free diet.

It is always important to confirm that the specific ingredients you’re using are gluten free, since it’s easy for things to be processed with gluten containing grains. Another concern is cross contact (contamination) for foods that are not prepared in a dedicated gluten free facility.

My article “Is Hot Cocoa gluten free” offers a deep dive on everything you need to know about hot cocoa on a gluten free diet.

Ingredients for peanut butter hot chocolate

The ingredients used to make peanut butter hot cocoa are simple, everyday ingredients. You should be able to easily find them anywhere you buy groceries including Amazon, Walmart and Target.

My favorite place to order ingredients online is Thrive Market. If you want to know more about how Thrive Market can save you money on a gluten-free diet check out my full review here.

To make peanut butter hot chocolate, you’ll need:

• Milk (Whole milk is the most creamy, but any milk will work, see below for dairy free modifications)
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• Sugar
• Peanut Butter 

Check out my recommendations for the best and safest gluten free peanut butter brands.

Dairy free peanut butter hot cocoa

Making dairy free peanut butter hot cocoa is so easy! Just substitute the milk for your favorite dairy free milk instead. 

I personally like to use soy milk as my dairy alternative because I find that it keeps the creaminess of traditional hot chocolate.

By substituting dairy milk for a plant based alternative, you can also make your peanut butter hot cocoa vegan friendly.

Sugar free peanut butter hot cocoa

If you need a sugar free peanut butter hot cocoa recipe you’re in luck! You can easily make this recipe sugar free by using an alternative sweetener and a low carb milk like unsweetened almond milk.

How to Make Peanut Butter Hot Cocoa from Scratch

To make peanut butter hot cocoa, you’ll start by taking out a small saucepan. Measure out each of the ingredients and add them one at a time to your saucepan.

Place the saucepan on the stove-top and turn it on to medium heat. Milk can burn easily so it’s important not to make the stove too hot.

Stir the ingredients together often, to ensure they are well combined and to help avoid burning.

Stir for 3-4 minutes. The mixture should be gently simmering and the peanut butter should be melted. 

Be sure you do not let the milk boil. 

Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully ladle it into your mug.

Top with your desired toppings and enjoy!

Optional Toppings

One of my favorite things about hot chocolate is how many optional toppings there are to make your beverage really special! Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things.

• Marshmallows (a classic hot cocoa add-in!)
• Whipped cream (another classic) 
• Chocolate shavings 
• Chocolate sauce
• Ice cream (if you haven’t tried this, you’re missing out!)
• Gluten Free Sprinkles
• Candy canes or other mint flavored candies
• Crushed Gluten Free Oreos
• Extra Drizzle of Peanut Butter

Living with celiac disease doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy delicious treats. The key is finding quick and easy recipes like this one for peanut butter hot cocoa that safely satisfy your cravings.

Simple gluten free ingredients with an abundance of optional toppings make this one of my favorite go-to recipes for kids and adults alike.

Do you love this recipe for homemade peanut butter hot chocolate?

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Other easy gluten-free treats you’ll love:

• 29 Gluten Free Birthday Treats
• How to Make Gluten Free Chocolate Lollipops
• Gluten Free Lemon Lime Bars
• Homemade Gluten Free Pop Tarts