Hot Cocoa (Chocolate)

Cacao powder is rich in many essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc, phosphorus and more.

It is full of antioxidants and flavonoids. Thanks to its content, it is found to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, improve brain function, reduce diabetes risk, have cancer-protective properties, help with asthma (1)(2)

Hot Cocoa drink is a great and healthy coffee alternative. And so easy to make. 

Hot Cocoa Chocolate requires a little more work, but still easy and so much healthier than commercial hot chocolate mixes. 

Cacao vs Cocoa: 

Cacao is the fruit in its raw unprocessed form. Cacao powder is made from cacao beans and nibs that are fermented and roasted at low temperatures. That is why cacao is much more nutrient rich. 

I prefer fair-trade raw organic cacao.

 

Hot Cocoa

Hot Chocolate with Cacao Powder
Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp Cacao Powder fair-trade raw organic cacao
  • 1 tbsp Coconut Milk Powder or Goat Milk Powder
  • 1 cup Boiling Water
  • 1 tsp Maple Syrup optional

Instructions
 

  • Add Cacao Powder and Milk Powder to a cup
  • Pour boiling water over it
  • Add Maple Syrup

Notes

You can adjust the recipe to your liking.
I usually skip maple syrup since I like it not sweetened.
You can add cinnamon powder or stick.
Instead of powdered milk, I often add coconut milk just enough to my liking. Or you can skip water and do only milk. The flavor will definitely be richer.
I like this recipe bcs it is fast and you just do it all in the cup.
If you crave Healthy Hot Chocolate with actual chocolate pieces, the following recipe by Beth @ Tasty Yummies is great https://tasty-yummies.com/how-to-make-hot-cocoa-mix/

 

Sources:

  1. “Cacao Powder Health Benefits.” (2023) https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cacao-powder
  2. “10 Health and Nutrition Benefits of Cocoa Powder” (2023) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cocoa-powder-nutrition-benefits

  3. “How-To Make Healthier Hot Cocoa Mix W/ Video {Paleo, Keto, Vegan}” https://tasty-yummies.com/how-to-make-hot-cocoa-mix/