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Spiced Hot Cocoa


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A cozy, spiced drink that blends deep chocolate notes with warm spices for a comforting treat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (or oat/coconut milk)
  • 4 oz high-quality bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup (to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp fresh grated nutmeg
  • 1 crushed green cardamom pod
  • Pinch of ground cloves or star anise
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp espresso powder (optional)
  • 1 tiny knob of butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Measure spices and whisk them briefly with a spoonful of milk to create a smooth paste; this prevents clumping.
  2. Heat the milk slowly in a heavy-bottomed saucepan until it reaches a gentle steam.
  3. Stir in the chopped chocolate and whisk until glossy.
  4. Sweeten to taste, finish with vanilla and the knob of butter for a silky sheen. Strain the cocoa through a fine mesh if using whole spices, then pour into mugs and garnish.

Notes

For a frothier top, use an immersion frother or vigorously whisk the drink for 30 seconds before serving.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: spiced cocoa, hot chocolate, cozy drink, comfort beverage, winter warmers