Warm Up with Real Cacao Hot Chocolate | The Good-for-You Treat

Let’s talk about real cacao. Not to be confused with processed cocoa powder, this stuff is loaded with benefits and brings a rich, earthy flavor to anything it touches.

So, if you’re a hot chocolate lover, you’re in for a treat.

Here’s a simple recipe for homemade hot chocolate that’s perfect for cozy evenings or crisp mornings. 

This drink is as good for you as it is delicious, so grab your favorite mug and get ready for some cacao-powered goodness.

Homemade Real Cacao Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk (we’re talking raw milk, whole milk, almond, or oat – whatever you love)
• 2 tablespoons cacao powder (unsweetened, the good stuff - it's now more common and you can usually find it at your local grocery store)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or a little sugar if you like it sweeter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of sea salt
• Optional: a sprinkle of cinnamon or even a dash of chili powder if you like a kick

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it’s nice and steamy (but don’t let it boil).
2. Add in the cacao powder, sweetener, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Keep heating until it’s the perfect temperature for you. Give it a taste and adjust the sweetness if you need.
4. Pour it into a cozy mug, curl up, and enjoy!

Why Real Cacao is Worth the Sip

Real cacao doesn’t just make this hot chocolate taste amazing – it’s packed with some powerful benefits:

• Antioxidant Power: Cacao is full of flavonoids, which are natural antioxidants that help protect your body from inflammation and keep things running smoothly.
• Feel-Good Vibes: Cacao has a couple of natural mood boosters. Theobromine (a gentle stimulant) and phenylethylamine (the “love chemical”) make it a perfect pick-me-up without the caffeine jitters.
• Nutrient-Rich: You’re getting good-for-you minerals like magnesium and iron. Magnesium, in particular, is a stress-buster that also supports muscles and heart health.
• Heart Health: Flavonoids in cacao are great for circulation. They can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and keep your heart happy.
• Gentle Energy Boost: Thanks to theobromine and a bit of caffeine, cacao gives you a light lift without the caffeine crash. It’s enough to keep you alert but relaxed.
• Brain Support: Those same flavonoids that help your heart also boost blood flow to the brain, helping with memory and focus.
• Happy Gut, Happy Life: Cacao has fiber that supports good gut bacteria. Healthy gut, happy life – that’s the motto, right?

So, next time you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, remember this simple cacao hot chocolate recipe. 

Need a caffeine boost because you are wrangling toddlers? SAME. Click here to try this Peppermint Mocha recipe using real cacao.

Need to heal your gut? Click here to try this bone broth hot cacao recipe.

You’re not just treating yourself – you’re also giving your body a little extra love with every sip.

Are you going to try this recipe? Let us know in the comments below!