A plant-based drink that tastes of chocolate and mint without any milk or added sugar – yet still feels satisfying. The oats provide natural sweetness and a velvety texture, while the mint adds freshness. Perfect as a dessert drink or an alternative to classic hot chocolate. Works both warm and cold, depending on preference.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Chocolate-Mint Oat Drink
80 g oats (fine or coarse variety)
1 litre water
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (min. 70 % cocoa content)
1 handful fresh mint leaves (approx. 10–12 leaves)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or agave syrup)
1 pinch sea salt
Key tips
The trick lies in straining: If you don’t strain the oat milk thoroughly through a fine sieve or cheesecloth, the drink will remain grainy. For an extra-creamy texture, you can soak the oats in warm water for 10 minutes before blending – this makes the texture even silkier. When heating, avoid vigorous stirring to prevent the drink from becoming frothy. Add the mint only towards the end so the essential oils don’t evaporate, keeping the flavour fresh.
Variations
- Iced Chocolate-Mint Oat Drink — Blend the cooled drink with 3–4 ice cubes until frothy. Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a mint sprig – refreshing like an iced coffee, but caffeine-free.
- Chocolate-Mint Oat Drink with Espresso — Stir 50 ml freshly brewed espresso into the warm oat milk before adding the mint. The bitterness of the coffee enhances the chocolate notes, giving the drink more depth.
- Spiced Chocolate-Mint Oat Drink — Simmer a pinch of chilli powder or half a cinnamon stick with the drink. The spiciness or warmth surprisingly complements the mint and makes the drink more interesting for adults.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this drink using store-bought oat milk?
Yes, but the flavour will be less intense. Freshly made oat milk has more natural sweetness and a creamier texture. If using store-bought, choose an unsweetened variety and reduce the maple syrup to 1 tablespoon.
Why does the milk sometimes curdle when heated?
Oat milk curdles when heated too strongly or comes into contact with acidic ingredients (e.g. lemon juice). Keep the temperature below 80 °C and avoid acid if serving the drink warm.
Can I replace fresh mint with dried mint?
Fresh mint is essential for the flavour – dried mint tastes dusty and loses its freshness. If no fresh mint is available, use 1 teaspoon of food-grade mint oil or omit it entirely.
