Everywhere you look, it’s clear- the holiday season has begun! One of the best parts about this time of year is the abundance of treats- everything from eggnog to pie with a scoop of ice cream on top. Some of my favorite holiday sweets are the kind you drink- peppermint mochas and hot cocoa are regular features on my menu in December.
But what happens when you’re lactose intolerant? This is something that I’ve had to deal with for years- I am lactose intolerant, so I have to take special measures to make sure my favorite treats don’t leave me with a stomachache. The easiest fix I’ve discovered? Make everything with LACTAID®!
LACTAID® is 100% real dairy, it just doesn’t have the lactose in it that regular milk has. This makes it easy for those of us with an intolerance to digest, helping us avoid the repercussions that come with giving into our dairy envy when it’s at it’s peak during the holiday season. Since LACTAID® is real milk, it can be used in recipes the same way that regular milk is, and it pairs just as nicely with a plate of Christmas cookies!
Since I absolutely love hot cocoa, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try LACTAID’s lactose-intolerance-friendly version- Quiet Evening Hot Chocolate. I’d never made hot chocolate on the stove before and after making this recipe, I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to go back to the old way!
Quiet Evening Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
2 ounces good quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
2 cups LACTAID® Milk
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cinnamon stick
Directions:
1. Break chocolate into small pieces and place in a small saucepan. Add remaining ingredients. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently. Cook until the chocolate is melted. Remove cinnamon stick.
2. Pour into mugs and serve!
Whether you’re lactose intolerant, hosting a party with a lactose intolerant guest, or just want to try something new, be sure to pick up a carton of LACTAID® this season so that you can rest easy, even when you’ve had a little too much milk & cookies.
You can find LACTAID® milk {and other products like ice cream, cottage cheese, and even holiday nog} at many grocery stores nationwide and at most Walmart stores- check out the store locator to find it near you! &If you’re looking for more great lactose-free recipes, try the recipe converter from LACTAID® to find out how to make your favorite recipes lactose intolerant-friendly!
Have you ever made hot cocoa on the stove?
- 2 ounces good quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
- 2 cups LACTAID® Milk
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Break chocolate into small pieces and place in a small saucepan. Add remaining ingredients. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently. Cook until the chocolate is melted. Remove cinnamon stick.
- Pour into mugs and serve!
Christine - The Choosy Mommy says
Thank you for sharing this! While I usually can drink/eat as much dairy as I want, my now 6 month old breastfeeder can not tolerate it so I have to keep a strict eye on my intake. I really miss it but I am def. going to try this hot cocoa recipe for the holidays!!
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
We are big hot chocolate lovers in our house. It’s perfect on a cold winter night!
Chelley @ A is For Adelaide says
What a fabulous recipe! Sounds like a great treat on a cold night.
Elizabeth O. says
That was pretty easy to do! I’d love to try it on my own and see how it works. I love hot chocolate, it’s definitely perfect for this season!
Liz Mays says
I’m definitely liking this idea. I’m lactose intolerant but I love a good hot cocoa when it’s cold.
Travel Blogger says
Thank you! I am also lactose intolerant, and I always feel like aren’t many “other” options especially around the holidays. I will definitely be trying this.
April @ My Real Food Family says
I switched to almond milk a couple of years ago. I’ve been able to substitute it for everything I used to use milk for.
Cindy (Prime Beauty) says
Oh thank you for this! I have IBS and dairy aggravates it, so glad to know this is available.
Jenn says
This looks and sounds delicious, and so easy. I bet my husband would really enjoy a cup. I’m going to give it a try.
Nikki says
That would be perfect this coming Christmas, I’m sure my family would totally love it.
Jacqui Odell says
I have been on a huge hot cocoa kick lately. I think the ice storm has a big part of that! LOL But I want to try this one next!
MyTeenGuide says
That looks delicious. Finally, a milk for my sister. She’s lactose intolerant, so she’s always avoiding milk.
ashleigh says
The honey and brown sugar seem like a great touch. Looks like a wonderful cup of cocoa.
Jennifer Pritchard Kearney says
This hot cocoa is exactly what I need this evening! I love that you added honey and brown sugar..wouldn’t have thought of that!