Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

While instant coffee is designed for convenience and fast mixing, you can substitute strong brewed coffee in place of water or milk in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may dilute the chocolate flavor slightly, so you might want to increase the cocoa mix to balance it out.

Is Instant Chocolate Coffee suitable for vegans?

Absolutely. To make this drink vegan , choose a dairy-free hot cocoa mix and pair it with almond, soy, or oat milk. Always double-check that your cocoa mix doesn’t contain milk powder or other animal-derived ingredients.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! One of the perks of instant chocolate coffee is how well it works as a make-ahead drink mix. Simply combine the dry ingredients in bulk and store them in an airtight jar. When you're ready, just scoop, mix with hot milk or water, and enjoy.

Instant Chocolate Coffee – Best 5-Min Recipe for Busy Days

Name: Instant Chocolate Coffee
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup milk or water: Base for the drink; milk adds creaminess, water keeps it lighter.; 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon hot cocoa mix: Provides rich chocolate flavor.; 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons instant coffee: Delivers a caffeine boost and coffee flavor.; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warming spice and aroma.

Description

This Instant Chocolate Coffee recipe is a fast and cozy mocha-style drink made with hot cocoa mix, instant coffee, and cinnamon. It’s perfect for chilly mornings, travel, or a quick afternoon pick-me-up. Ready in just minutes, it’s creamy, customizable, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup milk or water: Base for the drink; milk adds creaminess, water keeps it lighter.
2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon hot cocoa mix: Provides rich chocolate flavor.
1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons instant coffee: Delivers a caffeine boost and coffee flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warming spice and aroma.

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Instructions

Heat 1 cup of milk or water over medium-low heat until it simmers, with a few small bubbles appearing.
In a large mug, add the hot cocoa mix, instant coffee, and ground cinnamon.
Pour a small amount of the hot liquid into the mug and stir with a fork to form a smooth paste.
Gradually pour in the remaining hot milk or water while stirring continuously until fully blended.
Serve immediately while hot. Optional: Top with whipped cream or stir with a cinnamon stick or candy cane for added flavor.

Notes

Use a dairy-free milk and vegan cocoa mix to make this drink vegan-friendly.
Adjust cinnamon to taste; it’s strong and may be omitted if preferred.
Make a bulk dry mix and store in an airtight container for quick use.
Stirring with a fork helps dissolve the cocoa and coffee powders more effectively than a spoon.
Add a drop of vanilla extract for a smoother, more aromatic taste.

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 116
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 143mg
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg