Hot Cacao with Cardamom + Tahini (Vegan) Recipe
Introduction
This Hot Cacao with Cardamom and Tahini is a cozy, vegan twist on classic hot chocolate. The rich cacao pairs beautifully with the warm spice of cardamom and the creamy depth of tahini for a unique and comforting drink.

Ingredients
- 2 cups milk of choice (unsweetened vanilla almond milk recommended)
- 5 tablespoons organic cacao powder
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 green cardamom pod, freshly ground (or 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom)
- Optional: ground cardamom or cinnamon for garnishing
Instructions
- Step 1: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cacao powder, maple syrup, tahini, vanilla extract, and freshly ground cardamom.
- Step 2: Whisk continually until the mixture is smooth, begins to bubble, and appears frothy.
- Step 3: Carefully pour the hot cacao into mugs and, if desired, sprinkle with a little extra ground cardamom or cinnamon for garnish.
- Step 4: Enjoy your warm, flavorful drink immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use any plant-based milk you prefer for different flavors and creaminess levels.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg along with the cardamom.
- Adjust the maple syrup to taste for desired sweetness.
- If you don’t have tahini, try a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter as a substitute.
Storage
Store leftover hot cacao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving to restore smoothness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use dairy milk if you prefer; the drink will still be delicious, though it won’t be vegan.
What does tahini add to this recipe?
Tahini adds a creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the hot cacao.
PrintHot Cacao with Cardamom + Tahini (Vegan) Recipe
This rich and creamy Hot Cacao with Cardamom and Tahini is a vegan-friendly, comforting beverage perfect for chilly days. The combination of cacao’s deep chocolate flavor, the nutty creaminess of tahini, and the warm, aromatic cardamom creates a unique and indulgent drink that’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and dairy-free milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Liquid Base
- 2 cups milk of choice (unsweetened vanilla almond milk recommended)
Main Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons organic cacao powder
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 green cardamom pod, contents freshly ground (or 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom)
Optional Garnish
- Ground cardamom or cinnamon for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the milk, cacao powder, maple syrup, tahini, vanilla extract, and freshly ground cardamom. Stir to bring all ingredients together.
- Heat and Whisk: Whisk continually as the mixture heats. Continue until it is smoothly combined, begins to bubble, and appears frothy. Avoid boiling to keep the cacao flavor smooth.
- Serve: Carefully pour the hot cacao mixture into mugs. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon on top to enhance the aroma and flavor.
- Enjoy: Sip and enjoy this warming, vegan-friendly hot cacao beverage.
Notes
- Use unsweetened vanilla almond milk or any plant-based milk of your choice for a vegan version.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to taste.
- If you don’t have a cardamom pod, use 1/4 teaspoon of pre-ground cardamom instead.
- Tahini adds a subtle nutty flavor; you can substitute with almond or cashew butter if desired.
- For a spicier touch, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the saucepan while heating.
Keywords: Hot cacao, cardamom, tahini, vegan hot chocolate, dairy-free cocoa, warming drink, plant-based beverage

