Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink
If you’re on the lookout for a comforting and delicious beverage that warms you up while also supporting your health, look no further than this Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink. This delightful treat is more than just a classic hot cocoa; it packs a punch of spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fantastic choice for cozy evenings or chilly mornings.
Why Make This Recipe
Homemade hot cocoa is a beloved classic, evoking childhood memories and the joy of winter evenings. But what if you could enjoy that indulgence while also giving your body a little boost? This Spiced Hot Cocoa is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and ginger. These spices not only complement the rich flavor of cocoa but can also aid in reducing inflammation and enhancing overall wellness. Treat yourself to a cup of warmth that does more than just satisfy your sweet tooth!
How to Make Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink
Making your own Spiced Hot Cocoa is simple and fun! Follow the steps outlined below to create a delightful drink that is sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1⁄8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Stir in the maple syrup or honey, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend all spices evenly.
- Add a pinch of ground black pepper, which aids the absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
- Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir to meld the flavors.
- Remove from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious and warming flavors.
Pro Tips for Success with Spiced Hot Cocoa
- Choose Your Milk Wisely: While almond milk is a great option, feel free to use any milk alternative or dairy milk according to your preference!
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can add more or less maple syrup or honey. Tasting as you go is the best way to find your ideal sweetness level.
- Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh ground spices whenever possible. Whole spices that you grind yourself will add depth to your drink.
- Stir Constanly: When adding spices, keep whisking to avoid any clumping and ensure every sip is flavorful.
- Heat Gradually: Don’t rush the heating process; bringing the mixture to a slow simmer allows the spices to infuse properly.
- Making it Dairy-Free: If you are lactose intolerant or vegan, ensure your sweetener is also vegan-friendly to keep the drink fully plant-based.
Flavor Variations for Spiced Hot Cocoa
- Minty Twist: Add a drop of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flavor.
- Mocha Magic: Mix in a shot of espresso or coffee for a delightful mocha boost.
- Chili Spice: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to enhance the warmth.
- Vanilla Bean Delight: Incorporate a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet depth.
- Nutty Goodness: Top with crushed nuts such as hazelnuts or walnuts for an added crunch.
Serving Suggestions for Spiced Hot Cocoa
- Pair your Spiced Hot Cocoa with a slice of homemade gingerbread or other festive treats to elevate your snack time.
- Serve it alongside a cozy blanket and your favorite book for the perfect cozy evening.
- Set up a hot cocoa bar, allowing guests to mix and match their toppings to personalize their drink.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Spiced Hot Cocoa
To store any leftover Spiced Hot Cocoa, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat.
If you want to freeze the hot cocoa, pour it into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers. Thaw and reheat it on the stove, adjusting the thickness with a little milk if needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————–|———–|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbs | 24g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
FAQ About Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened?
Yes! However, if using sweetened cocoa powder, you may want to reduce or eliminate the maple syrup or honey to avoid overly sweetening your drink.
Is this drink suitable for children?
Absolutely! This Spiced Hot Cocoa is a great option for children looking for a warm and comforting beverage. Just be mindful of the amount of sweetener used, considering their sweet preferences.
Can I make this drink in larger batches?
Certainly! Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you want. Just ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate the extra liquid and stir continuously as it heats.
How do the spices help with inflammation?
The spices used in this recipe, especially turmeric and ginger, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin in turmeric is particularly effective, and when paired with black pepper, it enhances absorption for improved effect.
Is it okay to use a non-dairy substitute?
Yes! This recipe can be easily adapted to fit a dairy-free or vegan lifestyle by using almond milk or any other plant-based milk.
Final Thoughts
Indulging in a cup of Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink means treating yourself to both comfort and health benefits. With its mix of warming spices and rich chocolate flavor, it not only satisfies cravings but also supports your well-being. So why wait? Gather up your ingredients and treat yourself to a delightful, health-enhancing drink today! Enjoy the warmth and good vibes that come with each comforting sip.
Print
Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting beverage that warms you up while also supporting your health with anti-inflammatory spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
- Pinch of ground black pepper
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cocoa powder, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Stir in the maple syrup or honey, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend all spices evenly.
- Add a pinch of ground black pepper, which aids the absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
- Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir to meld the flavors.
- Remove from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
- Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious and warming flavors.
Notes
Adjust the sweetness as needed and use fresh ground spices for the best flavor. This drink can be made dairy-free with the right milk and sweetener.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
