Spiced Hot Cocoa with Turmeric and Cinnamon Recipe

Introduction

This spiced hot cocoa is a cozy and warming drink that combines rich cocoa with healthful spices like turmeric and cinnamon. Perfect for chilly days, it’s both comforting and packed with anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• Pinch of ground black pepper
• Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
2. Step 2: Whisk in the cocoa powder, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Step 3: Stir in the maple syrup or honey, mixing thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend all spices evenly.
5. Step 5: Add a pinch of ground black pepper, which aids the absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
6. Step 6: Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir to meld the flavors.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
8. Step 8: Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
9. Step 9: Serve hot and enjoy the delicious and warming flavors.

Tips & Variations

• Use plant-based milk and maple syrup to keep the drink vegan.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey according to your taste.
• For a creamier texture, blend the drink with a small piece of avocado or a splash of coconut cream.
• Try adding a dash of chili powder for an extra warming kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before drinking to recombine the spices.

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 use any milk you prefer, such as cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Each will slightly change the flavor and texture but will still work well.

Why is black pepper added to this hot cocoa?

Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances the absorption of curcumin—the active compound in turmeric—making the anti-inflammatory benefits more effective.

Spiced Hot Cocoa with Turmeric and Cinnamon Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 107 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This delightful spiced hot cocoa combines rich cocoa with warming spices like turmeric and cinnamon, creating a comforting and anti-inflammatory beverage perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a cozy pick-me-up.

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Ingredients

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Base

• 2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• Pinch of ground black pepper

Toppings (Optional)

• Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping

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Instructions

1. Heat the milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling, preparing the base for your spiced hot cocoa.
2. Add cocoa powder: Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder carefully to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth chocolate flavor.
3. Sweeten: Stir in the maple syrup or honey, mixing thoroughly to blend sweetness evenly.
4. Add spices: Incorporate ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, whisking continuously to evenly distribute these warming and healthful spices.
5. Add black pepper: Add a pinch of ground black pepper to enhance absorption of the anti-inflammatory compounds from turmeric.
6. Simmer gently: Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to meld all flavors together.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and pour the hot cocoa into mugs.
8. Top and enjoy: Garnish with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired, then serve hot and enjoy the comforting, spiced drink.

Notes

• Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Adding black pepper increases the bioavailability of curcumin, making the drink more effective.
• Cinnamon and ginger add additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
• To keep the drink vegan, use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
• Adjust sweetness to your taste by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey.

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: hot cocoa, anti-inflammatory, turmeric, spices, healthy drink, cozy beverage