As the days get colder, many of us turn to hot chocolate as the ultimate cozy beverage. So whether you’re savoring a cup of Lipem Chocolate hot cocoa or indulging in a delicious chocolate treat, the question often arises: does hot chocolate contain caffeine?
While hot chocolate is generally seen as a soothing, low-stimulant drink, it does contain some caffeine. However, the levels are much lower compared to coffee and tea.
Let’s look deeper into the caffeine content of hot chocolate and how it compares to other beverages.

How Much Caffeine Is in Hot Chocolate?
Yes, hot chocolate does contain caffeine, but the amount depends on the ingredients used to make it. The caffeine in hot chocolate mainly comes from the cocoa beans, which naturally contain caffeine.
However, the amount of caffeine in hot chocolate is generally much lower than in coffee or tea.
For instance, a typical ready-to-drink hot chocolate from brands like Swiss Miss contains only around 5 mg of caffeine per serving, while a larger, more cocoa-rich drink like a 16-ounce hot chocolate from Starbucks has about 25 mg of caffeine (HealthLine).
Compare this to a standard 8-ounce cup of coffee, which contains about 95 mg of caffeine, and it’s clear that hot chocolate offers a far gentler boost.
Caffeine vs. Theobromine in Hot Chocolate

While hot chocolate does contain caffeine, it also has another compound: theobromine.
Theobromine is an alkaloid found in cocoa beans and is similar to caffeine in structure, but it acts differently in the body. Whereas caffeine is a strong stimulant that can cause jitters and restlessness, theobromine has a much milder effect (Nib and Noble).
- Theobromine provides a gentle energy boost and enhances mood without the crash often associated with caffeine.
- It also has calming properties, making hot chocolate a great alternative for those seeking a bit of warmth and energy without the intensity of a caffeinated coffee
How Hot Chocolate Compares to Other Beverages

When comparing the caffeine levels in hot chocolate to other beverages, it’s clear that it is one of the milder options.
Here’s how hot chocolate stacks up against common drinks as seen on HealthLine.com:
- Coffee (8 oz.) – Around 95 mg of caffeine
- Black Tea (8 oz.) – 25-48 mg of caffeine
- Green Tea (8 oz.) – 25-29 mg of caffeine
- Coca-Cola (20 oz.) – 56 mg of caffeine
- Hot Chocolate (8 oz.) – 5-25 mg of caffeine, depending on the recipe
How to Enjoy Hot Chocolate with Less Caffeine

If you’re particularly sensitive to caffeine or looking to enjoy hot chocolate in the evening without affecting your sleep, it’s essential to consider how your hot chocolate is made. Ready-to-drink mixes often have the lowest caffeine content, making them a great option for those seeking a nearly caffeine-free treat (Hotel Chocolat).
On the other hand, if you prefer a richer cup made with high-quality Lipem Chocolate or cocoa powder, the caffeine content will naturally be a bit higher due to the larger concentration of cocoa solids.
- Our cocoa powder also tastes a lot less sweeter than most store versions due to its reduced artificial processing.
For an even lower-caffeine option, consider making your hot chocolate with milk chocolate or opting for a white chocolate hot cocoa, which contains no caffeine. You can also pair it with a bit of Lipem chocolate spread for added indulgence.