Spicy Hot Cocoa
Spicy Hot Cocoa is a rich, velvety drink that blends deep chocolate flavor with a touch of cayenne and cinnamon for gentle heat. Perfect for cold evenings, this bold twist on classic hot chocolate delivers cozy sweetness with a subtle spicy kick that warms you from the inside out.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy such as almond, oat, or coconut)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
- 1 oz dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or marshmallows (optional, for topping)
- Extra cinnamon or cocoa powder (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, and a few tablespoons of milk to form a smooth paste.
- Gradually whisk in the remaining milk and place over medium heat.
- Add chopped chocolate, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
- Dust with cinnamon or cocoa powder before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne level based on your spice preference.
- Whole milk gives the richest texture, but plant-based options work great.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate and non-dairy milk.
- Simmer slightly longer for a thicker cocoa.
- Add espresso for a mocha-style variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/spicy-hot-cocoa/
