If you haven’t simmered and whisked homemade hot cacao before, you’re about to have your taste buds cheering for more! This special refined-sugar-free version is rich in antioxidants and trace minerals, boosted by cinnamon, is completely vegan, and takes only minutes to make. It’s an incredible treat for all ages, but also a healthy food. What could be better?
Ingredients
- 4 cups unsweetened nut milk, coconut milk, oat milk, soy milk or any combination
- 4 tablespoons raw organic cacao powder
- 4 tablespoons pure local maple syrup (adjust to desired sweetness)
- 1–2 teaspoons vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean (scraped)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon chai spice blend (. teaspoon cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg, ⅛ teaspoon cloves, ¼ teaspoon ginger, pinch of cardamom)
- Coconut whipped cream
- Organic dark chocolate shavings
- Peppermint stick
- Cinnamon stick
- Vegan marshmallows
Preparation
Bring milk to a simmer in a medium saucepan over medium/high heat. Add in all other ingredients (consider optional spices listed above), whisking until smooth and piping hot.
Pour into mugs and garnish with desired options. Drink hot and enjoy!
For optional added nutrition, richness and creaminess (my personal favorite and must have) add 2 tablespoons almond butter and 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Pour just slightly cooled mixture into blender cup (or use an immersion blender) and blend until frothy.
