A healthy hot cocoa recipe for snowy, wintry days

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I can’t think of anything more comfy than sitting by a fireplace, snow falling outside the window, with a hot cup of cocoa in my hands.

In honor of all the snow we are supposed to get this week, I thought it would be a good time to share my favorite healthy hot cocoa recipe. While I am for a traditional cup of hot chocolate, when it’s snowing as often as it has been lately, that cannot be a regular drink on the menu if I’m going to keep my health (& waistline) in check.

The secret here is that I whip the milk in a food processor before heating it – this adds a thickened consistency & a nice foam on top of the hot chocolate that adds a richness without adding a lot of sugar or heavy cream. I use almond milk, but any milk will work!

I personally don’t add any sugar to this recipe, but if you aren’t used to using no or only natural sugar, I recommend adding in just a teaspoon at a time until it is at your desired sweetness level. I have found that whipped cream, especially dairy-free whipped cream (such as almond or coconut milk whipped cream) has a natural sweetness to it that gives me the taste I am looking for without adding a lot of sugar or calories.

Check out the recipe below, try it for yourself, & let me know what you think! And if you have a favorite hot cocoa recipe (healthy or not), please share it in the comments – I would love to try it!

Healthy Snow Day Hot Cocoa Recipe

Makes: 1 serving

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups milk of choice (I like unsweetened almond milk)
• 1 rounded tablespoon dark chocolate unsweetened cocoa powder (such as Hershey’s)
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• sweetener of choice, to taste (try pure maple syrup or honey for a healthier, natural sweetener; add 1 teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired level of sweetness)
• whipped cream, for topping (I use almond milk whipped cream)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (use in place of the vanilla extract – this makes a very festive peppermint hot chocolate that I personally love enjoying any time of the year)

Directions:

1. Combine milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, & sweetener of choice in the bowl of your food processor. Pulse for about 30 seconds, or until milk is frothy & thick.
2. Pour milk into a large mug & microwave for 1 1/2-2 minutes, or until extra frothy & hot. A thick foam should have appeared on top.
3. Top with whipped cream & enjoy!

That’s seriously it! It is so easy, & so much healthier for you!

Enjoy!