Healthified Hot Chocolate

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Gluten Free - Dairy Free - Soy Free - Refined Sugar Free -Nut Free Options

Hot Chocolate

This is my go-to base for a good mug of hot chocolate in the colder months. As a child, I was never a fan of hot chocolate, especially not those packets where you just add water and call it hot chocolate. I must confess though, I loved eating those tiny dehydrated marshmallows that came in those packets of chocolate sugar powder. For some reason, those spoke to me. Now, I really enjoy hot chocolate. Not just any old hot chocolate though, I love drinking a good mug of dairy-free, mineral-rich, naturally sweetened hot cacao... I mean, hot chocolate.

Many people ask why I use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder. The quick answer is that cacao powder is made from raw cocoa beans that have not been introduced to high heat and processing. It is a health promoting ingredient that contains high levels of antioxidants, magnesium, iron, and calcium with a richer, bolder flavor than it's nutrient-void counterpart, cocoa powder.

This hot chocolate recipe contains the addition of healthy fat to your mug. You can opt to use unrefined coconut oil as a plant-based oil or grass-fed ghee for those not opposed to consuming animal product. Both fats make for a much creamier, heartier beverage that helps balance blood sugar and satiates, so that you feel full sooner.

On the next chilly day that comes your way, grab your favorite mug and fill it with this chocolatey goodness. It tastes even better if you wrap yourself in a warm blanket and read a good book while you sip.

Hot Chocolate

Prep time: 5 min., Cook time: 5 min., Total time: 5-10 min.

Makes: 16 ounces

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups nondairy milk of choice

  • 2 Tbsp. raw cacao

  • 1 tsp. unrefined coconut oil or organic ghee

  • ~ 1 Tbsp. honey or maple syrup

  • 1⁄2 tsp. vanilla extract

  • Pinch sea salt

  • Optional: small pinch cayenne pepper

 

Directions:

Bring milk to a low simmer in a saucepan. Remove from heat and add all ingredients. Whisk/blend until well combined. Try using an aerolatte if you prefer a frothier beverage.

Pro Tips

Prep: Combine cool ingredients in a blender, store in the refrigerator, shake and heat when ready. Whisk while heating to prevent burning and well combine.

Play with Your Food: Mix it up by adding medicinal mushroom powders, fresh mint, grass-fed collagen, or use an herbal blend of tea as the liquid base with just a splash of df milk. 

Try this warming hot chocolate and let us know what you think in the comments.