Introduction

Warm up with this Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink, a delicious blend of rich cocoa and warming spices designed to soothe and comfort. Perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a cozy, healthful treat.

Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 cups of unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon of raw honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric
A pinch of ground ginger
A pinch of ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A small cinnamon stick (optional for garnish)
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for an added kick)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, pour the almond milk and warm it over medium heat. Make sure the milk does not boil.
Step 2: Gradually whisk in the cocoa powder until fully dissolved and evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add the honey, ground cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir continuously to blend the spices well.
Step 4: Lower the heat and simmer the mixture for about 3-5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Taste the cocoa and adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more honey or cayenne pepper if desired.
Step 7: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs and garnish with a small cinnamon stick or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra flavor boost.
Step 8: Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, spicy warmth.

Tips & Variations

Use coconut milk instead of almond milk for a creamier texture.
For a vegan version, opt for maple syrup instead of honey.
Add a splash of espresso for a mocha twist.
Adjust spices to your taste — more cinnamon for sweetness or extra cayenne for heat.
Consider topping with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for indulgence.

Storage

Store any leftover hot cocoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well to recombine the spices and milk before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cow’s milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, including cow’s milk. Just be mindful that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.

Why is there black pepper in the recipe?

The pinch of black pepper helps enhance the absorption of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory compounds, boosting the drink’s health benefits without altering the flavor significantly.

Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 58 reviews

This Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink is a warm and comforting beverage infused with health-boosting spices like turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Sweetened naturally with raw honey or maple syrup, it offers a soothing, rich chocolate flavor paired with the anti-inflammatory benefits of its spices, making it perfect for cozy, health-conscious moments.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Liquid Base

2 cups of unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

Spices and Flavorings

2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon of raw honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric
A pinch of ground ginger
A pinch of ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A small cinnamon stick (optional for garnish)
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for an added kick)

Instructions

Warm the Milk: In a medium saucepan, pour the almond milk and warm it over medium heat. Ensure the milk heats gently without boiling to preserve its flavor and nutrient content.
Dissolve Cocoa Powder: Gradually whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder until it is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
Add Spices and Sweetener: Stir in the raw honey, ground cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper, continuously mixing to combine the spices well with the cocoa base.
Simmer: Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes so the flavors meld together perfectly.
Finish with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add depth and aromatic sweetness.
Adjust Flavor: Taste your cocoa and adjust sweetness or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the spice if desired.
Serve: Pour the hot cocoa into mugs, optionally garnish with a cinnamon stick or additional cayenne pepper for an extra flavor boost.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the comforting, spicy warmth of this anti-inflammatory drink.

Notes

Use almond milk or any milk of your choice; dairy or plant-based options work well.
Adjust sweetness according to your preference by adding more honey or maple syrup.
Be careful not to boil the milk to avoid altering the flavor and texture.
Cayenne pepper is optional and can be skipped or increased based on heat tolerance.
This drink contains spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making it both tasty and beneficial.
For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
Serving immediately ensures the best flavor and warmth.

Keywords: spiced hot cocoa, anti-inflammatory drink, turmeric cocoa, warming beverage, healthy hot chocolate, cinnamon cocoa drink, cozy winter drink