Decadent Hot Chocolate
By Dr. Cindy Tanzar
Indulge in the ultimate cozy beverage with this Hot Chocolate recipe! Perfect for cool evenings or when you just want to treat yourself, this rich and creamy concoction blends a delightful mix of sweeteners, cocoa, and your choice of coconut or almond milk. Enhanced with chocolate chips and a touch of vanilla, it offers a luxurious warmth that wraps you up in comfort, making it the perfect drink for any chocolate lover!
Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Recipe:
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a vegan option) and chocolate creates a blissfully smooth texture.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness to your liking and experiment with flavored extracts for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes four servings, so you can share it with friends or family—if you’re willing to!
Servings: Makes 4 servings.
Ingredients:
- For the Hot Chocolate:
- 3/4 cup Allulose* or Swerve Confectioners (a low-calorie sweetener)
- 1/4 cup Dutch cocoa** (or regular unsweetened cocoa powder)
- 3-1/2 cups unsweetened coconut or almond milk
- 1/4 cup Lily’s chocolate chips (optional: or use an extra 2 Tbsp cocoa powder)
- For the Creaminess:
- 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat canned coconut milk for a vegan option)
- Flavor Enhancer:
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
Directions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, whisk together the Allulose or Swerve, Dutch cocoa powder, and almond or coconut milk. If using chocolate chips, add them in at this stage too.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or canned coconut milk). Heat through, but avoid boiling.
- Enhance Flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness if necessary with more Allulose or Swerve, or add liquid stevia if desired. For additional flavor, consider incorporating flavored extracts like peppermint or caramel.
- Serve: Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, and if you like, top with whipped cream or extra chocolate chips for that indulgent finish.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Chocolate recipe is your go-to for creating that perfect warm beverage, serving as a delightful treat for cold nights or a comforting afternoon break. Enjoy each sip of this creamy goodness, whether you’re seated by a fire or snuggled up with a good book.
Get cozy and make this hot chocolate your new favorite indulgence!
*Notes:
*Dutch cocoa can be found in the baking aisle and offers a smoother, richer taste that’s less acidic.
*Allulose is readily available in most baking aisles, health food stores, or online on platforms like Amazon.