Cacao Hot Chocolate

February 2, 2022

Winters in the Northeast can feel never ending, and having something warm and cozy in my hands makes everything a little bit better. This hot chocolate recipe uses cacao, which in its pure, raw form is an amazing source of antioxidants and helps to keep us vibrant and healthy.

Winters in the Northeast can feel never-ending, but having something warm and cozy in my hands makes everything a little bit better. This hot chocolate recipe uses cacao, which in its pure, raw form is an amazing source of antioxidants and helps to keep us vibrant and healthy. The typical chocolate bar or commercial hot cocoa mix has been highly processed, heated, and contains sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors. This recipe also includes cinnamon which creates the perfect wintertime aroma, as well as having numerous health benefits – cinnamon enkindles the digestive fire, eliminates toxins in the GI tract, supports healthy circulation in the joints, and can help to reduce excess congestion in the head and chest.

Ingredients (serves 2)

2 cups Milk

2 tsp cacao

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1-2 Tbsp maple syrup

1/4 tsp Ashwagandha (optional)

In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, combine all the ingredients and whisk together. Heat until hot, but just below a boil. Pour into a cup and enjoy while hot!

Note: Cacao does contain caffeine so can be quite stimulating. I find this recipe is best to have in the afternoon or not too late in the evening, especially if you have difficulty sleeping. You can modify this drink with carob powder, which has the same richness as cacao but without the aggravation to the nervous system. Pay attention to how it makes you feel and decide when the best time of the day for you is to have this warming drink.